Speech and Debate Team Hosts Pre-debate Discussion Event

SPRINGFIELD, IL (September 30, 2020) – In preparation for the presidential debate season, the UIS Speech and Debate Team hosted a pre-debate discussion event. This discussion took place via Zoom and was open to all students, faculty, and staff at the university. Director of the team, Timothy Bill, provided a short presentation on the history of presidential debates and the specifics of first presidential debate of 2020.

After providing this background information, those in attendance were encouraged to share what questions they had and what they wanted to hear from the candidates. The participants specifically wanted to hear about the candidates’ plans for responding to the pandemic, how they would bring back jobs, and their views on women’s reproductive rights.

“I was very encouraged by the level of interest of those who attended” says Director Bill. “The students were well informed and really cared about the policies being proposed by each candidate. That is a healthy sign for our democracy.” After the discussion, Bill provided a list of possible ways of viewing the debate online.

The University of Illinois Springfield Speech and Debate Team is committed to training the next generation of civic leaders, public speakers, and communicators who are passionate about effecting change in their communities. Students who are interested in joining the team should reach out to the coach Timothy Bill (tbill2@uis.edu) or check out the team website at Speech and Debate site.