Cal Poly Humboldt Debate has been part of campus life since 1926, when Humboldt State Teachers’ College hosted regional debate exhibitions and competitions. A formal team was established in 1933 through Phi Kappa Delta, and for decades, debate has helped students build confidence, critical thinking, and communication skills that last a lifetime. The program has reached impressive milestones, including competing at the World Universities Debating Championship in Mexico City in 2018 and advancing at national tournaments. 🏆 After budget cuts forced the program to pause in 2020, the team is now rebuilding and traveling to tournaments again in 2025 and 2026.

Tournament travel is essential to debate education. In a typical class, students may only debate a handful of times per semester, but attending a tournament can double or even triple those opportunities in just one weekend. Recently, Humboldt students returned to competition at the Rocky Mountain Debating Championship in Denver and the Talk Hawk Invitational in Livermore, marking the program’s first major tournament appearances in years. ✈️🎤

Debate does not just improve academic performance. It builds real-world skills. Research has shown that participation in debate is linked to higher GPAs and stronger test scores. More importantly, it teaches active listening, critical reasoning, and thoughtful argument. These are skills that translate directly into careers in education, law, science communication, media, public service, and beyond. Humboldt debaters have gone on to work in political offices, scientific communication, and even perform at regional comedy festivals. 🎓

We are now asking for your help to keep this momentum going. Your support helps cover travel, tournament registration, and the supplies needed to compete at events like the upcoming Steve Hunt Classic in Portland and potentially national championships. For many of our students, debate tournaments are also their first opportunity to travel outside California and connect with peers and educators from across the country. 🌎

Please make a gift today and help Cal Poly Humboldt Debate continue rebuilding a nearly 100-year tradition, giving students the opportunity not just to compete, but to thrive. 💛🪵