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Debate Team to host series of Reunion events celebrating Vanderbilt debate’s history and future

Vanderbilt Debate will host an open house, public debate and alumni reunion on Friday, Nov. 3. Debate is an important part of academic life at Vanderbilt University—and has been since its founding. This event series is an opportunity to reflect on the history of debate at Vanderbilt, connect with alumni, explore the new debate space and hear about where Vanderbilt Debate is headed next. 

The public debate event is open to the public, and attendance from past and present Vanderbilt Debate students is strongly encouraged. 

The following events will take place on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023: 

Vanderbilt Debate Open House | 4–5:30 p.m. 

Location: The Curb Center for Art, Enterprise, & Public Policy, 1801 Edgehill Ave., Nashville, TN 37212   

Debate team alumni are invited to join fellow graduates, current team members and professors in the new debate space for food, drinks and conversation. Vanderbilt debaters are encouraged to bring their families and showcase their awards in the new trophy display. 

Public Debate | 5:30–6:30 p.m. 

Location: First Amendment Center, Auditorium, 1207 18th Ave. S. No. 200, Nashville, TN 37212  

Debate has been central to the campus life of Vanderbilt University since its founding. Starting in 1896, Vanderbilt would annually compete in a series of public debates with Sewanee: The University of the South. Please join us as undergraduate students from Vanderbilt and Sewanee revive this historic debate series. 

Debate Alumni Reunion | 7 p.m. 

Location: Student Life Center, Ballroom BC, 310 25th Ave. S., Nashville, TN 37212 

Vanderbilt Debate alumni are invited to join us for dinner and conversation. This is an opportunity to reconnect with friends, coaches and old debate partners. Attendees will hear about a new project documenting the history of debate at Vanderbilt, and alumni will have a chance to share memories of their time as Vanderbilt debaters. 

Inquiries: Mary Lynn “ML” Sandoz (ML.Sandoz@vanderbilt.edu)