Debate Team Wins Top Honors

The ISU Rupp Debate Team won top honors from the Steve Hunt Classic Debate Tournament, hosted by Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon.

More than 600 entries from 38 schools across 14 states entered the tournament, making this year’s tournament largest events of the fall debate season.

Strong Showings in Debate Events

In International Public Debate Association (IPDA) competition, ISU debaters performed exceptionally well due to their critical thinking and persuasive speaking skills.:

• Maleah Dilworth advanced to the octofinals.
• Jonathan Stoneback reached the quarterfinals.

Success Across Speech Events

ISU competitors also excelled in individual speech events:

• Alex Kuyper reached the semifinals in Extemporaneous Speaking, highlighting quick analysis and a confident speaking style.
• Isaac Brambila earned 2nd place in After Dinner Speaking, impressing judges with well-timed humor, creativity.

During the Swing Speech Day part of the tournament, Brambila continued to shine with multiple top finishes:

• 1st place – Poetry
• 1st place – Program Oral Interpretation (POI)
• 3rd place – After Dinner Speaking
• 4th place – Prose Interpretation

Leadership and Continued Excellence

Under the direction of Sarah Partlow-Lefevre, director and head coach of the Rupp Debate Team, and Assistant Coaches Heather Gilmore and Jack Quigley, these awards highlight the team’s dedication, teamwork, creativity, and competitive spirit.

The team will continue to represent ISU on both regional and national stages throughout the competitive season.