Our Mission

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The mission of the Middlebury Debate Society is to develop Middlebury College students' ability to think critically, speak confidently, and explore new ideas through competitive parliamentary debate in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Think Critically

Develop your ability to critically analyze any subject matter or topic. ​

Explore New Ideas

Debate and discuss every subject imaginable with interested and passionate students from around the world. ​

Speak Confidently

Gain confidence speaking in front of groups in a safe, supportive environment. ​

Why Debate?

“I joined the debate team to improve my speaking skills and for the competition. Soon I found out that I walked into a fun, welcoming, and compassionate community that seamlessly switches from a joking atmosphere to a serious debate. People compete for intellectual high ground while at the same time trying to make their debate opponents laugh so much that they lose focus. I look forward to seeing the people on the debate team as much as the debate itself.”
-Matt Goodman, '23.5