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NWACC Seeking Students for New Forensics Team
A new NorthWest Arkansas Community College faculty member is seeking students interested in joining the college’s forensics team.
“On the first floor of Burns Hall, just before reaching room 1109, there is a trophy case with shelves of medals, plaques, and awards brought home to Northwest Arkansas Community by the Speech and Debate team from years ago,” said Kendrea James, NWACC professor.
James joined NWACC in 2024, and she is looking to update that trophy case and bring the once-instated forensics team back to life.
Competitive forensics, or speech and debate, is a practical application of professional public speaking, research skills, debate, and artistic expression. Students from our region and all over the country study, practice, and travel to collegiate tournaments to compete in an academic arena that results in real-world benefits and experience.
These students are researching real-world events, policies, and art and using their skills and tools to showcase their talent in a competitive atmosphere while representing NWACC on a national level. Students competing on the speech and debate team gain knowledge and skills of communication, political science, business and international policies, public speaking, critical thinking, and upholding ethical practices.
These students will spend weeks preparing for competition and showcasing their skills and knowledge, competing against other college students. Events such as Informative, Persuasive, Extemporaneous, and Impromptu Speaking. Communication Analysis, Literary Interpretations, Poetry, and Dramatic Interpretation. International Public Debate Association, Lincoln Douglas, and Public Forum debate styles.
Competing on the speech and debate team leads to benefits outside the classroom that help students develop confidence, courage, world knowledge, and a global understanding of what it means to be in our world and participate in the community.
If you’re interested in learning more about the team or would like to join, please contact Kendrea James at k3james@nwacc.edu for more information.