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Speech & Debate
Concordia University's Forensics program is committed to providing a team-centered and supportive environment where you can use competitive public speaking as a context for forming lasting friendships while practicing the foundational habits of a liberal arts education, including empathy, wisdom, moderation and courage. We provide a safe space for students of all backgrounds to share messages they are passionate about in an effort to make positive changes in our world, our community and ourselves.
Express your passions and discover the power of your voice
We believe that speech is an activity that is central to the university’s mission to inspire students to learn, serve and lead in the church and world. We will constantly and unapologetically push our students to be better: better students, better competitors, better citizens, better people.
Speech team ranked No. 22 nationally, while competing against schools from NCAA Division I to NAIA
Joe Davis, director of forensics, was named 2021 Outstanding New Forensics Coach by the American Forensics Association National Speech Tournament
At the 2021 AFA-NST, speech had 14 team members qualify for 30 events. We were one of 16 schools to score points in 10 or more events.
Scholarships are available for all team members particpating in speech and debate, no matter your level of involvement
Speech won the 2021 Novice No More Tournament Team Sweepstakes, with 11 first-year speakers finishing in fourth place or better
40+ team members ranging from a multitude of backgrounds and academic programs
Meraki
Meraki, our team's mantra, is about putting a piece of yourself (love, soul, creativity) into your work. We have goals and expectations within our team, but Concordia Speech aims to evaluate each team member on the unique quality of effort being made.
Debate at Concordia
Debate is back at Concordia beginning in the Fall 2021 semester. As part of the debate team, you can grow in your argumentative and persuasive speaking skills and help establish a new team culture and traditions while engaging in necessary and valuable discussions within the campus community.
Learn more about Debate
Earn A Scholarship
Each year, Concordia awards speech and debate scholarships to students who demonstrate the ability and desire to improve the team. These scholarships are granted in addition to other merit-, talent-and need-based aid for which you may be eligible.
Dedicated Facilities
Concordia has dedicated spaces for researching, rehearsing and performing speeches, as well as discovering and cementing the life-long friendships you’ll build with your teammates.
Director of Forensics and Communications Instructor, Joe Davis, hopes his students lives out their team motto of "Meraki", which means to put a piece of your soul into your work.
Meet Your Coaches
Joe Davis
Director of Forensics
Dr. Erica Lamm
Associate Professor of Communication, MBA Program Director, Assistant Director of Forensics
Majors of Interest
| Christian Education Leadership B.A. B.S.Ed. |   | 100%career outcome rate |
| American Sign Language |   | 98%career outcome rate |
| Applied Communication B.A. | | 98%career outcome rate |
| Business Communication B.S. |  | 95%career outcome rate |
| English B.A. | | 90%career outcome rate |
| Journalism and Public Relations B.A. | | 98%career outcome rate |
| Mandarin | | 98%career outcome rate |
| Marketing B.S. | | 95%career outcome rate |
| Spanish B.A. | | 100%career outcome rate |
| Strategic Communication B.A. | | 98%career outcome rate |
| TESOL B.A. | | 100%career outcome rate |
| Theatre B.A. |  | 100%career outcome rate |
| World and Intercultural Studies B.A. | | 98%career outcome rate |
News & Upcoming Events
Ready To Join Our Team?
If you're interested in learning more about the speech team, please fill out this form and we will get in contact with you.
Expand Your Mind
Concordia Nebraska can provide you with the excellent, rigorous academic foundation you need to be successful no matter where your interest lies. With more than 100 undergraduate, graduate and professional academic programs to choose from, you’ll have the opportunity to study at the highest level, discover your passions and apply your knowledge in ways that will change the world.
A Private Education With Value(s)
You’ll find a more meaningful college experience at Concordia, where you’ll be part of a supportive campus community as you study your passions and prepare to make a positive impact in the world. Through generous scholarships and financial aid packages, your tuition at Concordia will be similar to what you will find at a large public university.
Student Success Is Our Priority
Your success at Concordia is not just defined by your GPA, but how you’re equipped to make an impact in your career and throughout your life. We’re committed to providing you the academic and spiritual tools you’ll need to be successful in all facets of your life.