Supporting the art of debate

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Americans hear a great deal of talk about crucial policy issues that affect their lives. To expand and enhance that discussion, the Institute for Strategic Policy Solutions (ISPS) proudly hosts a yearly, competitive forum for Florida college students to debate these issues – the Grand Debate.

Crafted to prepare today’s students to become tomorrow’s future leaders, this statewide initiative brings together students and faculty from across Florida’s “Great 28” state colleges to engage in friendly rivalry to debate relevant issues of the day.

Beyond sharpening public speaking and debate skills, participants gain valuable networking opportunities with college-wide peers, government officials and business leaders from across the state.

Building on this mission, the Fourth Annual Grand Debate gathered finalists from St. Petersburg College, Daytona State College, Hillsborough College, Eastern Florida State College and Palm Beach State College Nov. 6 to tackle a timely question: Should the government regulate social media content moderation policies?

“My key takeaway is knowing that really anybody can achieve something like this and being here,” said Antonio Valley, third-place winner from Daytona State College.

“I had absolutely no experience before this, so knowing that I was able to get up to speak gives me confidence and pushes me to do better,” Valley said.

To reach this stage, participating colleges first hold preliminary rounds on campus. From there, finalists dive into research on the predetermined topic approved by ISPS and its college partners.

Remaining unbiased throughout the process, students are required to research both sides of the argument and receive their stance the morning before the competition. The views expressed in the Grand Debate do not represent those of participants or ISPS.

“ISPS and the Grand Debate have been a tremendous asset to Palm Beach State College, and I believe all the colleges that participate,” said, Dr. Kevin W. Coakley, MA JD, professor of political science at Palm Beach State College.

“Besides the fact the debate educates students to have a civil debate over political issues and policies, it’s given my students a chance to meet other students who have similar backgrounds and similar interests,” Coakley said.

ISPS’ Grand Debate serves to foster collaboration and speech skill building for the entirety of the Florida College System.

To learn more about the Grand Debate and watch our past competitions, visit isps.spcollege.edu/grand-debate/

Matthew Lee is Marketing & Communications Manager at the Institute for Strategic Policy Solutions at St. Petersburg College.