August 28, 2025 – Nine years ago, I barely had three weeks under my belt at NAUDL when I joined the team in San Francisco for three days of competition. I recall feeling awestruck when I attended the Urban Debate National Championship (UDNC) that very first time in 2016.
Aside from feeling genuinely impressed by the intellectualism and enthusiasm outside of the debate rounds, I remember being blown away during the debates themselves. I quickly recognized Christine Harris, who represented the Bay Area Urban Debate League as a force – a phenomenal communicator who commanded the entire room while delivering the most persuasive arguments.
Until recently, I never recalled that Christine and her partner would ultimately win the 2017 UDNC tournament. From the moment I heard her speak, it was clear Christine was an undeniable champion, whose presence remains more memorable to me than even the most coveted title.
For nearly a decade, I have routinely encountered debaters and alumni like Christine. Whether competing in policy or Debate en Español rounds, representing their leagues in I RESOLVE public debates, mentoring other students, or serving the network through the White & Case NAUDL Fellows program, they strongly represent just how deserving they are of every single opportunity and accolade. Masterful communicators, persuaders and critical thinkers, they have influenced my leadership of NAUDL and my love of debate.
My journey with NAUDL ends on as high of a note as it started – with a great sense of admiration for the talent and promise in the young people we serve. During my final days as Executive Director, I had the good fortune of observing the Fellows capstone project presentations. Another amazing experience and incredible reminder of how engaging, thoughtful and compelling debaters are and how impressively they show up.
I am forever moved by this experience. I am grateful to the friends and partners who made it so fulfilling and feel honored to have worked so closely with an incredible team. Together, we created new opportunities for debaters and alumni to shine and to hone key skills sure to prepare them for success in life and careers. I look forward to seeing what the next chapter delivers in new programs and growth opportunities. I rest assuredly that the organization is in very good hands and that debaters will continue to ‘bring it,’ ready to inspire progress at every turn.
Rhonda Haynes