Loyola’s Student Government Association recently chartered a speech and debate club for the university. The chartering of the club took place at the SGA meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 30.
Allison Rogers, political science freshman, presented the idea to SGA of adding a speech and debate organization to Loyola’s campus. She started a team at her high school and has done the same at Loyola.
“We have a very active set of minds on our campus, and by opening up a competitive avenue for students to advocate their positions it will facilitate better and more informed discussion within the student body at large,” Rogers said.
SGA passed the chartering of the organization with a unanimous vote. According to Mara Steven, SGA Chief Justice, SGA members think Loyola will benefit from the organization.
“The team will not only help students get involved in campus life, but also teach valuable speaking skills that translate well into classroom activities,” Steven said.
Ben Bayer, assistant professor of philosophy, is one of the advisors of the club. He also participated in a speech and debate team in high school.
“There was nothing else I did as a student that better prepared me for college and my eventual career,” Bayer said. “Loyola students who participate in speech and debate will also have the chance to participate in this intellectual adventure.”
Rogers said her goal for the club is to grow into becoming a team and eventually start competing by the fall.
“I hope that the Loyola speech and debate team will become a force to be challenged within our region and the nation at large,” Rogers said. “Between hosting our own tournament and excelling at tournaments that we attend, the program can quickly grow into a well-known team to those that we encounter.”
Bayer said he is excited about Rogers’ plans for the club and excited for students to become involved.
“Students from a variety of disciplines and backgrounds will learn effective communication skills, rather than playing a game to see who can talk the fastest,” Bayer said.
Alicia Serrano can be reached at [email protected]
