The Center for Democracy in Deaf America

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The Center for Democracy in Deaf America

A non-partisan organization at Gallaudet committed to disagreement, debate, and civic engagement

08/21/2026

The Gallaudet debate team’s meet and greet is the first Tuesday of this upcoming semester in HMB 1112 for those who are interested in trying out for the debate team this year. Get the word out and bring your friends!

08/14/2026

In just two years with the Gallaudet Debate Team, Ella embraced opportunities to learn, grow, and challenge herself as a debater.

Watch Ella reflect on her experience in the program and the moments that shaped her journey.

What advice from Ella would you pass along to a future debater?

08/13/2026

Last but not least, the Most Valuable Debater (MVD) Award recognizes the individual who has made outstanding contributions to the success of the Gallaudet Debate Team.

This year's recipient is Trent Mora, whose four years of dedication to the program have left a lasting impact. As a three-year team captain, Trent helped lead the program through practices, tournaments, and debates. Combined with his award-winning performances, moving rhetoric, and incisive meta-analysis, his contributions have helped shape the team both on and off the debate floor.

Congratulations to Trent on receiving this year's Most Valuable Debater Award!

07/10/2026

The Perseverance Award honors the debater who has demonstrated exceptional grit throughout the season, showing up consistently and refusing to quit even when faced with competing demands.

Throughout a year-long debate season, Sevan balanced debate alongside numerous athletic commitments while continuing to show up, contribute, and give his best effort. His dedication and resilience have made him a valued member of the team.

We are grateful for the perseverance Sevan has brought to the program. Congratulations on receiving this year’s Perseverance Award.

07/03/2026

The Debate Values Award recognizes the debater who best embodies the values of the Gallaudet Debate Team:

• Diversity
• Integrity
• Responsibility
• Democracy
• Solidarity
• Humility
• Curiosity

Now in her third season, Dalina models these values both inside and outside of practice. Whether supporting her teammates, approaching disagreements with curiosity, or taking responsibility for her own growth, she leads by example and helps strengthen the culture of the program.

Congratulations to Dalina on receiving this year’s Debate Values Award!

06/25/2026

The Most Passionate Award recognizes the team member who cares deeply and isn’t afraid to show it, especially when it matters most.

You’ll always find Nicole contributing to the group chat and speaking up. Whether discussing a warm-up drill, a policy proposal, or the future of the program, she brings enthusiasm, conviction, and energy to every conversation.

Thank you, Nicole, for your passion and commitment. Congratulations on receiving this year’s Most Passionate Award!

06/19/2026

The Bison Award recognizes the debater who consistently supports their teammates and contributes to the morale and culture of the program.

Sydney Block showed up to every practice with a smile, serving as the team’s eternal optimist. Her positivity and encouragement helped make the debate team a welcoming and supportive place to learn and grow.

Congratulations to Sydney on receiving this year’s Bison Award!

06/11/2026

The “Most Improved Debater” Award recognizes the Gallaudet debater who demonstrated the most growth throughout the season.

Ella made the most of every opportunity this year, bringing her best to each practice and pushing herself to improve her organization, argumentation, and rhetoric. Her hard work culminated in a persuasive keynote speech at the final Veditz Debate of the semester, showcasing just how far she has come as a debater.

Congratulations to Ella on receiving this year’s Most Improved Debater Award!

06/05/2026

The Best Newcomer Award honors a first-year debater who jumps in with enthusiasm, works hard, and makes the team better from day one.

Pax wasted no time doing exactly that.

From impressive performances in British Parliamentary debate to thoughtful keynote speeches at Georgetown Philodemic and Veditz, he has already established himself as a talented debater. Just as importantly, his curiosity, work ethic, and drive to improve have made him a valued teammate.

Congratulations to Pax on earning this year’s Best Newcomer Award!

05/29/2026

This award recognizes the debater who best captures the Gallaudet Debate Team’s motto.

To debate well is to listen as if you’re wrong. First and foremost.

This debater is one of the quieter members of the team and speaks sparingly. At times, you might even wonder if he’s taking it all in. But when he rises to speak, he demonstrates a sharp ability to listen, distill arguments, and give them their due before methodically challenging them. Because he listens well.

Jevon Burns is this year’s recipient. Join us in congratulating him in the comments!

Address

800 Florida Ave NE
Washington D.C., DC
20002

Website

https://linktr.ee/thecdda

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