Recruiting

The Trinity University debate program participates in cross examination policy debate tournaments sanctioned by the American Debate Association, Cross Examination Debate Association, and the National Debate Tournament. Trinity debate participates in novice, junior varsity, and varsity divisions of tournaments throughout the nation. Year in and year out our squad goal is to be successful at the highest levels of intercollegiate debate. Towards that end, we are interested in recruiting talented high school debaters interested in continuing their debater careers in college.

There are several online resources for high school students interested in debating in college. At a minimum, every prospective debater should read Dr. Allan Louden's essay on "Selecting a College Debate Program" found here. As Dr. Louden suggests, it is important for prospective debaters to have the information necessary to make a decision that is appropriate for their individual goals. Below is a list of frequently asked questions relevant to Trinity University debate.

1) Does Trinity University offer debate scholarships?
Yes. Trinity University supports our efforts to recruit talented high school debaters through Baker Duncan debate scholarships.Students with experience in high school debate are invited to apply. We encourage candidates to schedule a campus visit and meet with the director of debate and the Trinity debaters. Applicants should submit:

    * A letter of interest outlining their involvement in competitive debate and their academic goals and interests

    * A tournament-by tournament record of their debate competitions

    * A letter of recommendation from their high school debate coach

    * Optional: letters of recommendation from anyone in a position to evaluate the applicant's potential as a Trinity debater.

Send application materials to Dr. Jarrod Atchison, Department of Speech & Drama, Trinity University, One Trinity Place, San Antonio, TX, 78212. Deadline: March 1, 2010.

This award is renewable for up to eight semesters, excluding summer, as long as the recipient participates at an acceptable level in debate and maintains full-time enrollment and a pre-determined grade point average. For more information about Baker Duncan scholarships in Debate, contact Dr. Jarrod Atchison at jarrod.atchison@trinity.edu or (210) 999-8582.

2) What tournaments does Trinity University attend?
A quick glance at our schedule reflects our squad goal to be successful at both regional and national tournaments. Student travel is decided in consultation with the Director. Tournament travel is primarily determined on individual goals, academic achievement, and work ethic.

3) Is Trinity University a religious institution?

No. Founded in 1869 by Presbyterians, today Trinity is governed by an independent Board of Trustees. Students at this private, residential, co-educational university come from diverse backgrounds and find here an environment that celebrates both individuality and community. Trinity's name reflects its Christian origins and the three regional Cumberland Presbyterian governing bodies that supported its institutional organization. Click here for more information.

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