Civil discourse—political and otherwise—has always been a topic of great social importance, especially in recent years. Advances in technology making it easier than ever to throw “issue bombs” or “gotcha questions,” resulting in fractured relationships and diminished trust in institutions critical to the continued success of our society. But fear not! The traditions of constructive dialogue and debate are alive and well at Gonzaga—award-winning, even.
Pictured here with their coaches are Molly Martin (’22, Communication Studies) and Avalyn Renee (’21, Honors College/Philosophy), who represented Gonzaga University at the prestigious Lafayette Debates in Washington D.C. in 2022. This unique event was founded by the Embassy of France to the United States and The George Washington University as an international platform for student dialogue and debate. Arguing the topic The New Urban Agenda should be a sustainable development priority, Martin and Renee defeated Claremont Colleges in the final round with a unanimous decision in front of a panel of experts.
This phenomenal achievement is a demonstration of the academic excellence that makes Gonzaga University distinctive. I am excited to see the trophy Martin and Renee won that is in the Communication Studies department, and I hope that these students know how very impressed we all are with their achievement.
I hope you’ll join me in raising a glass to the next generation of communicators, who are ready to add their much-needed voices that amplify the principles of eloquentia perfecta and critical thinking to chorus of communication out there.