Would you like to practice your public speaking skills and earn money doing it?

This semester we’re reviving the Brooks Prize Debate, a Southwestern tradition dating back to 1876. Teams of two debaters will square off at a gala event for two $2,000 scholarships and a pair of historic medals. The second place team will also receive awards, including scholarship money.

The debate topic will be:

Resolved: That multinational corporations are a menace to societies around the globe.

Teams will prepare to debate both in favor and against the resolution. A short series of elimination rounds will begin in mid February with the final competition occurring in late March. The competition is open to all students from any major and previous debate experience is not required.

Additionally, two oratory competitions will take place alongside the debate with awards going to the top orator for each of the following topics: 

• The Future of the Past
• Science and Society

Monday, February 2 is the final day to submit an interest form for the Brooks Prize Debate and Oratory competition. Forms will be accepted until MIDNIGHT February 2. Interest forms can be turned in to the trays in the Post Office and at the Front Desk of the Library. The full contest rules will be sent to everyone who has filled out an interest form. Anyone who has already submitted an interest form should begin researching the debate topic or brainstorming an oratory. The debate and oratory competition is less than a month away!

Dates to remember:

• Debate Preliminary Rounds: Feb 23-27
• Oratory Competition: March 6
• Final Event: March 31

Questions regarding the competition may be directed to Matthew Maschino at or Sarah Gould.