The Beehive Forensics Institute hosted by John R. Park Debate Society
The College of Humanities’ John R. Park Debate Society, housed in the Department of Communication, began the month by hosting the Beehive Forensics Institute (BFI). Last week, 40 students from 5 states (Idaho, Utah, Nevada, Florida, and Michigan) participated in-classes, practice debates, and more led by the University’s national and internationally-recognized Debate Society. Throughout the week, students participated in over 350 practice debates, more than 40 hours of instruction, and left feeling prepared for the 2024-2025 competitive season. At the same time, many students will receive college credit for participating, paving the way for future study as University of Utah students.
“The coaches helped me refine my case-building skills”
– Hailee H
“We did a ton of flowing drills, where you write stuff down fast, and speaking drills and learned to adapt and work with new partners.”
- Lyla N.
“I learned a lot about critiques, and the goal of them, that I hope will help me a lot in rounds ”
- Jayme C.
“Debate teaches you how to have an educated conversation with someone, especially the adults in my life. I feel like I can actually contribute to a conversation.”
-Olivia A.
Founded in 2011, the Beehive Forensics Institute has consistently offered high-caliber summer camp opportunities at a fraction of the costs required to attend comparable events. In addition, the camp provides learning opportunities for high school students no matter their area of interest, including instruction in Policy Debate, Lincoln-Douglas Debate, Public Forum Debate, Extemporaneous Speaking, and Student Congress.
“There is a significant amount of research supporting participation in debate as a tool for increasing student success across the curriculum, and increasing completion rates. This camp gives students an opportunity to get a jump start on their competitive season while learning skills that are going to benefit them throughout their education.”
– Jeannie Hunt, Director of Forensics
The Institute is led by Director of Forensics, Jeannie Hunt, and Assistant Director of Forensics, Averie Vockel. Additional staff includes graduate student coaches and undergraduate competitors from the John R. Park Debate Society. Together, the staff offers students an exceptional learning experience informed by over 80 years of highly decorated coaches in all debate events and competitive experience. With both novice and varsity tracks, BFI has something to offer for students who are already highly competitive or those just starting their debate careers.
“BFI provides a place for…students…[to] see where debate can take them academically and in their careers, and gives them a chance to start networking with people who can help them as they navigate the world.” - Jeannie Hunt, Director of Forensics.
