November 4, 2024 – In a monumental week like this one, I feel so fortunate to be a part of the debate community. I am very pleased to write to you, our supporters, to emphasize the meaningful impact and engagements made possible by your investment. For 20 years, we have counted on the generosity of donors like you. The results: more than 100,000 debaters have learned the art of persuasion and the skills of leadership through our work.

For the students in our network – and the coaches who guide them, resilience always wins. You are helping to unlock new horizons for those we serve. You are creating pathways for self-confidence and communication skills not found in textbooks or traditional lesson plans.

As you are reading this, I feel confident that, no matter what issues are at the forefront for you right now, the respectful exchange of ideas – and the preparation of the next generation of leaders to do so with eloquence, integrity and thoughtful analysis – is as important to you as it is to me. Personally, I have days where I wonder if I am doing enough to encourage this progress. However, I am grateful that I only have to observe any round of debate, at any tournament, across any of our partner leagues, where insightful arguments of thought are always on display. “Passion mixed with logic,” as one recent event panelist said.

When debaters speak, people listen – not just about the critical issues at hand, but the decisions we must consider to solve them. Thank you for sharing our vision and for believing in the power of debate to empower the voices of tomorrow.