Missouri Valley College | Academics | Learning Beyond the Classroom | Debate and Forensics Team

Debate and Forensics Team

The debate team here at Missouri Valley College is relatively new, but that hasn’t stopped it from gaining national success. In the 2018-2019 season Missouri Valley College debaters took home the National Grand Prix Novice Championship. The debaters look to continue their success in the 2019-2020 by qualifying to the National Forensics Associations National Tournament hosted in Whitewater, Wisconsin.

The current topic is: The United States federal government should implement an energy policy that substantially increases investment in one or more of the following energy sectors: nuclear, hydroelectric, geothermal, wind, solar.

We’re also looking to expand into Forensics! Forensics offers many more opportunities for students to participate in events like persuasive speaking, extemporaneous speaking and dramatic interpretation.

If you’re interested in joining the debate team please do not hesitate to contact David Bowers (bowersd@moval.edu) or stop by his office (Ferguson 223).

If you are a prospective Viking, check out the FAQs below. If you are a CURRENT Viking, more information is available for you just below the FAQs.

FAQs About the Debate Team

What do we do?

Currently, the debate team competes in NFA-Lincoln Douglas. LD is a 1-on-1 policy oriented debate. We’re also looking to expand and do more public speaking and dramatic interpretation events.
Are There Scholarships Available / Does it Cost Anything to Join the Team?

Yes! We have scholarships available for the debate and forensics team. Those on scholarship should plan on traveling 3-4 times per semester and regularly attending practice sessions.

No! The debate and forensics team is free! All that we ask is that members work hard and represent Missouri Valley College to the best of their abilities.
Who is the Coach?

David Bowers is the current debate coach at Missouri Valley. Prior to working at Missouri Valley he worked for the Great Debaters of Wiley College, helping their team to a top 5 finish at nationals. David has an office on the third floor of Ferguson Hall in room 223.
What is the Scholarship Process?

When applying for a debate scholarship, it is helpful if you can include examples of your debate work. These can include videos of speeches/ rounds, files you have cut, etc. You can email those to bowersd@moval.edu. To request more detailed information about our scholarships, click here.

Current Students

While many students who join the debate team will be recruited out of high school or junior college, you are always welcome to “walk-on” and compete with the team. Regardless if you have previous debate experience or not, we will work with you to help you achieve the goals you have in debate. Feel free to contact David Bowers at bowersd@moval.edu for more information.