UK Debate seniors Jared Adam and Lauren McBlain.
Recently the University of Kentucky Intercollegiate Debate Team made its first semi-finals appearance at Harvard University’s Harvard College Tournament since the teams’ National Debate Tournament championship run in 2019.
“This was a tremendous effort by the students and coaching staff,” said Director of Debate Dave Arnett. “When you talk about Harvard, you’re talking about one the most competitive debate events on the planet so a final four finish there is a major accomplishment.”
Seniors Jared Adam and Lauren McBlain progressed through several rounds prior to their face off with Dartmouth College. Following the preliminary debates, the pair held a 7-1 score and ranked third overall out of 80 teams. Even when faced with powerhouse debate teams such as Wake Forest University, Northwestern University, Kansas University, Michigan State University and Emory University, Adam and McBlain came out triumphant.
The team of Anna Stockstill and Jeremiah Simpson finished with a 5-3 record, placing them as the 21st seed. The duo intends to continue their strong showing after recently winning the University of Minnesota tournament.