Speech and Debate

The McKendree University Speech and Debate Team offers an enjoyable academic experience that supplements the education of our students and fosters civic engagement. Intercollegiate competition is the primary means by which we achieve this goal. We appreciate and celebrate the uniqueness of each student and strive to provide an opportunity that suits the needs and goals of every member of our team.

The team offers a comprehensive intercollegiate speech and debate program, competing in NPDA, IPDA, and NFA-LD debate, as well as the eleven AFA speech events. In addition to competition, the team runs the Southern Illinois Debate League (SIDL) with local high schools, expanding access to debate opportunities in the region and offering our students and alumni opportunities to give back.

McKendree offers scholarships to members of the team. Interested students can apply and mark debate as an interest. No previous experience is required to join the team. Students on the team come from all majors at McKendree.

If you are interested in joining the speech and debate team, either as a current or prospective McKendree student, feel free to email Joe Blasdel (Director of Speech and Debate) for more information.

You can support the team directly by making a donation at this link. Select 'Other' for your fund designation and enter 'Speech and Debate' in the provided box.