Our HistoryAs the world’s largest youth-led nonprofit organization focused on debate accessibility, our story captures the magic of young people.
At Eloquence AcademyWe envision in an extraordinary future in which all young people are actively engaged in critical discourse, informed by evidence, and empowered to serve as dynamic leaders within their communities.
Our educational programs provide enriching experiences that strengthen these skills, reduce education equity, and encourage a lifelong openness, collaboration, and thirst for further learning.
Our Values
At Eloquence Academy, students find themselves, their friends, and their purpose:
Programs
Classes
Premier instruction in academic debate
Rigorous competition & quality judging
Tournaments
Schools
Supporting emerging debate teams
Your Journey to Excellence Begins Today
Detailed program information
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Over 1000 students (aged 5-19) participate in weekly debate classes and annual summer camps. With the guidance of our experienced faculty, students master all elements of debate, including how to work with a partner, appeal to different judges, construct a sound argument, and employ a confident delivery. Special offerings include a debate class for native Spanish speakers with the Latino Education Advancement Fund (LEAF) and a new monthly public speaking course with Tennessee State University and University of Tennessee.
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Tri-annual debate tournaments, annual speech competitions, and intermittent mock trial scrimmages provide rewarding opportunities for our dedicated debaters to compete against one another and hone their skills. To establish a social impact, at least 50% of total entry fees (across all divisions/events) are donated to various local and national charities.
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Debate-Inspired Classrooms assists primary and secondary schools developing their own debate programs. The Academy offers adaptive public speaking curriculum, debate resources, virtual instruction, grants, and faculty professional development sessions focused on debate-inspired instructional practices. We support the specific funding or logistical needs of K-12, public, independent, magnet, charter, boarding, and homeschools.