More than 400 college and university students representing 35 institutions of higher learning will visit Arkansas Tech University in Russellville for the 2017 International Public Debate Association (IPDA) National Debate Tournament and Convention Thursday, March 23, through Sunday, March 26.
The national championship tournament will feature eight preliminary rounds of debate in four IPDA individual divisions: novice, junior varsity, varsity and professional. IPDA team nationals will be held on Thursday, March 23.
The competitions are open to spectators. Those interested in viewing debates may report to the Doc Bryan Student Services Center Rotunda at 1605 Coliseum Drive in Russellville for information about specific events.
Daily hours of competition are as follows:
- Thursday, March 23: 10 a.m.-9:30 p.m.
- Friday, March 24: 8 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
- Saturday, March 25: 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
- Sunday, March 26: 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
IPDA states on its website that its mission is to “provide an opportunity for individuals to develop their advocacy skills in a forum that promotes appropriate and effective communication.”
The 2017 IPDA National Debate Tournament and Convention is hosted by the Arkansas Tech University debate and forensics team. Dr. Gabriel Adkins, associate professor of communication, serves as the team’s advisor.
