Ronald Reagan Debate Series | Southern Methodist University

Hosted by the non-profit, non-partisan Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute, this series offers high school students a unique opportunity to sharpen their critical thinking, public speaking, and argumentation skills. Unlike traditional debate formats, this series emphasizes thoughtful deliberation and impactful discourse—essential tools for tomorrow’s leaders.

Compete alongside the region’s top students at the Dallas Regional Debate Competition at Southern Methodist University on May 3rd, or join our online competition on May 30–31. Winners from each regional event will earn an all-expenses-paid trip to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in California to compete in the National Championship for a share of $50,000 in scholarships!

📅 Event Schedule:

8:00 AM | Student Check-in Opens

9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Preliminary Rounds (Closed – Students Only)

2:30 PM – 4:00 PM | Qualifying Rounds (Open to Public)

5:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Final Round (Open to Public)

🎟️ Audience Attendance:

Join us from 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM for the Qualifying and Final Rounds, where the top 16 students will compete for a chance to advance to the National Championship in California! Free and open to the public.

📌 Student Registration:

Open to high school students (grades 9-12)

Important Information:

• Registration Deadline: Sunday, April 27, 2025 at 11:59 PM

• Includes: Lunch for competitors only

• Chaperone Requirement: An adult must be present for the duration of the tournament

📄 Regional Topic: RESOLVED: The US education system should be managed by the states, not the federal government.

More Details & Resources: www.reaganfoundation.org/debate

We look forward to seeing you there!

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Southern Methodist University, 6425 Boaz Ln, Dallas, United States