The Franklin Debating Society provides opportunities for students to engage in argumentation, debate, advocacy, and a variety of speaking events. We believe these opportunities are important to facilitating critical thinking, developing mind and character, and being well rounded individuals. Rather than advancing a particular party or ideological perspective, the Society engages in critical discussion and debate to deepen understanding of cultural, social, and civic issues.
Franklin Debating Society
“The Franklin Debating Society is valuable because it helps me with my public speaking and critical thinking. I love participating in debate because I can connect with college students from different schools.”
Emma Reilly ’22
Our Students from a wide variety of areas of study
Our students come from a wide variety of majors and minors. Typical majors include Classical Studies, Communication Studies, and Political Science. Additionally, while many squad members fall into those types of majors, our students go beyond these typical majors; other majors include Biology, Black Studies, Economics, English, Sociology, and Writing.
Meet the coach Franklin Debating Society
Sam Allen
Assistant Professor
Education
- Ph.D., Communication Studies, University of Pittsburgh
- M.A., Communication Studies, University of Wyoming
- B.A., Women’s Studies, University of Wyoming