Speech and Debate Ranked Second in Nation at Mid-Season

The Speech & Debate Society at the U of A is celebrating a standout mid-season performance as national rankings from the International Public Debate Association (IPDA) place the team among the top programs in the country. With half the competitive season remaining, the team is positioned for one of its strongest finishes in recent history.

Strong Mid-Season National Rankings

Through the fall semester and early-season tournaments, the team has secured top rankings across every major IPDA season-long category:

• Scholastic Season-Long: 2nd Place

• Founders Award Season-Long: 3rd Place

• Team IPDA Squad Season-Long: 4th Place

• Novice Squad Season-Long: 2nd Place

• Junior Varsity Squad Season-Long: 5th Place

• Varsity Squad Season-Long: 7th Place

• Professional Squad Season-Long: 8th Place

These rankings reflect the team's growing strength, depth and consistency against programs from across the nation.

Individual Competitor Achievements

Arkansas debaters have also earned impressive individual mid-season placements, highlighting the program's talent across all divisions:

Novice Division

• Percy Blaich — 5th Place Novice Speaker; 4th Place Novice Debater

• Josh Tompkins — 8th Place Novice Debater

Varsity & TIPDA Divisions

• Austin Keefe — 1st Place Varsity Speaker; 4th Place Varsity Debater; 3rd Place TIPDA Speaker

• Austin Keefe & Emma Powell — 7th Place TIPDA Pair

These results reflect not only individual excellence but also the collaborative culture and rigorous preparation that define the team's competitive approach.

Sponsored by the Diane Blair Center

The Speech & Debate Society extends sincere appreciation to The Diane Blair Center for Southern Politics and Society, whose generous support makes the program's travel, training and tournament participation possible. The Blair Center's sponsorship continues to expand opportunities for Arkansas students to engage in debate, develop leadership skills and represent the U of A on a national stage.

About the U of A Speech & Debate Society

The Speech & Debate Society competes in tournaments regionally and nationwide, and is open to students from all majors and disciplines. The team emphasizes critical thinking, persuasive speaking and ethical advocacy while fostering community, leadership and academic growth. If you or someone you know is interested in joining the program, please email coach Hannah Morris (hannahm@uark.edu) or president Austin Keefe (akeefe@uark.edu).