The Arkansas Speech and Debate Society traveled to Abilene, Texas, for the 25th annual IPDA National Tournament April 8-11. This has been the first time that the U of A has been to nationals in more than 10 years. Not only was the team able to take home the overall sweepstakes award for the state of Arkansas, they also saw incredible individual and team successes as well.

Out of 66 TIPDA teams nationwide, all three of Arkansas' teams placed in the top 32. These teams consisted of President Daisy Rehbock and Max Green, Secretary Luke Hubbard and Treasurer Edward Onisei, and Vice President Megan Dial and Jaci Sabitini.

Freshman Green was able to take home the ninth best speaker award in the Junior Varsity Division out of 64 competitors. All four Novice competitors were in the top 50 in the nation, including freshmen Dial and Onisei. Sophomore Rehbock finished in the top 32 in the nation, and freshman Hubbard was able to secure a spot in the top 16 individual competitors in the nation.

Overall, Arkansas had both incredible achievements and a great time at IPDA Nationals this year! If you're a student interested in joining the team, please email arkansasforensics@gmail.com or Rehbock at derehboc@uark.edu.