Dedication, Discussion, Triumph: UWG Debate Looks to the Future Share this page
At the University of West Georgia, where intellectual conversation is encouraged, UWG Debate has a rich legacy of success and has become a force to be reckoned under new head coach, Geoffrey Lundeen. With 25 years of coaching experience – including 10 years helping lead the UWG team – Lundeen has dedicated much of his life to cultivating young minds.
UWG Debate participates in a variety of styles, with a specific focus on evidence-based formats. They specialize in Policy NDT-CEDA debate, which connects to undergraduate research and emphasizes the importance of supporting claims with credible evidence.
NDT (National Debate Tournament) and CEDA (Collegiate Advocacy and Research Debate) are two national organizations that govern this style of debate. These premier intercollegiate formats, among many others, push students to approach challenges with logic, evidence and clarity.
“Oftentimes, just having the better argument or researching a little bit harder than your opponents can make all the difference,” Lundeen advised.
Debaters face off against Ivy League schools, service academies and R1 research universities. The experience is both intense and rewarding with the UWG team earning recognition as one of the top 16 teams in the country, according to the NDT National Committee.
“UWG has been debating against Division I schools since 1973,” said Lundeen. “It's an activity in which you get to compete against the most prestigious schools.”
Beyond competitions, UWG Debate students develop transferable skills that are essential in both academic and professional settings. Literacy development, critical thinking and the ability to organize information are vital, not only in debate but in any career.
As Lundeen looks to the future, he hopes to reconnect with Georgia high schools. To achieve this, he’s collaborating with friend Ed Williams from the Westminster Schools in Atlanta to cosponsor what’s called ‘Team Georgia’ for the NSDA World Style Debate next year. Students from across Georgia can apply to join ‘Team Georgia’ and compete against other state teams on UWG’s campus the following spring.
“The hope is to attract international teams as well,” said Lundeen.
On April 24, at 6 p.m., the UWG Debate team will host a public exhibition on clean energy. This event will take place in the Campus Center Ballroom and is designed to showcase the research students have conducted over the course of the year.
photography by Julia Mothersole