SVUDL Showed Me that the Only Person Limiting Me is Myself

When Isabella Hernandez first joined SVUDL as a sophomore at Downtown College Prep, she thought it might sharpen her speaking skills. Three years later, she discovered it changed something much deeper.

"I have learned to rely on myself," she says, now a senior at Latino College Preparatory Academy. "I used to depend on the opinions of others – my family, friends, or classmates. Impromptu Speech pushed me to trust my own intelligence and think on my feet. By stepping away from what others thought, I developed the ability to believe in myself."

That belief didn't come overnight. Starting as a sophomore, Isabella often felt like she was a few steps behind. But she kept showing up. By the start of her senior year, she took on an entirely new challenge: World Schools debate. "It was completely different from anything I was used to," she recalls. "But I applied myself and tried really hard. These experiences showed me that the only person stopping me — and limiting me — is myself."

What's surprised her most isn't the trophies or the tournament wins. It's the growth she didn't see coming. "I never thought I'd be here telling others about my experience with Speech and Debate," she reflects. "It's an invisible kind of growth. It's the confidence I've developed, and the friendships I've made."

Central to that experience has been community. Isabella describes the bond among SVUDL students as something genuinely unique. "We've all seen each other grow and root for one another, because we all have the same goal: to try as hard as we can. SVUDL creates a safe space where you don't fail — you just learn something new."

That ethos extends to competition itself. "The excitement after countless late nights researching and a win is real," she says. "But so are the bonds you build working with your team. Competition within SVUDL creates a deep level of respect, because we're not competing against each other. We're competing with each other. We push each other to grow and discover parts of ourselves we didn't know existed."

Her coaches, in particular, have left a lasting mark. When college application season arrived, they were there for more than proofreading. "They would sit down with me and push me to be the most authentic version of myself," Isabella says. "Because we work so closely together, they understood my goals and my dreams. College applications can feel like judgment with schools comparing you to thousands of others. Having my coaches beside me meant I wasn't standing alone. In the moments I didn't believe in myself, their refusal to let me play it safe was the best support I could have gotten."

Looking back, Isabella is grateful for all of it, including the late nights, the nerves, and the growth. "SVUDL is committed to students," she says. "Helping them learn, providing resources, and being there both physically and emotionally when students need it most. That's what makes it so special."

SVUDL Welcomes Michael Whitman to the Board of Directors

SVUDL is excited to introduce Michael Whitman, our newest member of the Board of Directors.

Michael serves as Principal at PwC, where he partners with leading technology firms to develop and execute transformative strategies that drive operational excellence and deliver sustainable outcomes. With over 25 years of combined industry and consulting experience, he brings a remarkable depth of insight, a global perspective, and an unwavering commitment to impactful results.

For Michael, joining SVUDL's Board of Directors is a natural extension of values he has long held. He sees Speech and Debate as one of the most powerful tools we have for preparing young people for the world ahead.

"Speech and Debate programs provide students with invaluable skills that extend well beyond the debate round. They foster essential critical thinking and logical reasoning abilities. Students are regularly challenged to evaluate complex, sometimes ambiguous scenarios and to develop well-supported positions grounded in sound logic. Equally important, these programs teach students the significance of considering multiple perspectives, encouraging critical analysis before forming opinions. Ultimately, participation builds the confidence necessary not only to articulate and defend their viewpoints, but also to engage respectfully with opposing arguments. This is a quality that is indispensable in both professional environments and in society at large."

He is equally passionate about what these skills mean in today's world. "We are constantly surrounded by an overwhelming amount of information, which often leads to confusion and distraction. The ability to approach this information with a discerning mind is not only essential for navigating everyday life — it is a fundamental ingredient for career achievement. Speech and Debate equips students with exactly these skills, empowering them to sift through the noise and make informed decisions that serve them well both personally and professionally."

A lifelong learner, Michael holds an MBA from the Leavey School of Business at Santa Clara University, an MA in History from San Jose State University, and a BA in History from San Francisco State University — an academic path that reflects the same intellectual curiosity he brings to his work with SVUDL.

We are grateful to have Michael's expertise on our Board. Welcome, Michael!

SVUDL Crowns its 2026 Champions

On March 7th, 64 students participated in SVUDL’s final championship tournament of the school year, hosted by Yerba Buena High School in San Jose.

In our Asynchronous Public Speaking division, Danielle Marie Garcia from Silver Creek High School won first place securing her position as champion! Special shout out to KIPP San Jose Collegiate students Stanley Tran and Elisa Nguyen for securing 2nd and 3rd place in this division.

In Impromptu Speech, Silver Creek High School swept the division winning all 3 trophies! Danielle Marie Garcia, Mikim Nguyen, and Katelynn Nguyen won 3rd, 2nd, and 1st place respectively! Asked about her experience competing in the Impromptu Speech division, Overfelt High School student Winney Jiang said “I was really shocked by how much I could learn from other people by the way they spoke! I loved seeing the different styles and the way people presented themselves. Their vast vocabulary, the way they changed their facial expressions and hand movements—it was really great to see.”

In Original Oratory, Silver Creek High School student Mikim Nguyen won 1st place and secured her position as the SVUDL Original Oratory Champion!

KIPP San Jose Collegiate won first place in the Public Forum division, winning all 3 top speaker awards! Congratulations to Stanley Tran and Timothy Phan on winning first place, and Michelle Tran, Timothy Phan, Stanley Tran for winning 3rd, 2nd and 1st place Public Forum Speakers respectively! Aleesha Kashif reflected on her experience as their Teacher Coach: “From my first tournament two years ago at Yerba Buena to my last tournament this month, I have truly seen my team come full circle. The kids have grown their skills exponentially, and I have grown mine while trying to teach them. These tournaments have definitely left a long lasting effect on my life that will carry on in all my communication moving forward.”

Our World Schools Debate division was a hotly contested event, with teams from 5 different schools competing to be number one. Our first place World Schools speaker was Anastasia Kolesnikov from Summit Preparatory, at what turned out to be her first tournament ever! Our top World Schools team was from Latino College Preparatory, with the students Kaysee Santos, Daniel Chavez, Isabella Hernandez, Sandra Montejo Zunun, Angeles Jauregui all pulling together to earn the title of SVUDL World Schools Debate Champions!

In the Policy Debate division, the top team and top speaker were both from the host school Yerba Buena High School. With Mandy Thach winning 1st Place Speaker and William Nguyen winning 1st Place Team, securing his position as SVUDL Policy Champion!

William Nguyen will be attending the Urban Debate National Championship (UDNC) in April with his partner Ryan Luu. Wish them luck as they represent our league in Cambridge, Massachussets next month!

We also would like to celebrate some additional members of the SVUDL community for their hard work and dedication to our league over the school year. They represent some of the best parts of our league!

• Senior of the Year - De’Angelo Quintero (Andrew Hill High School)

• World Schools Debater of the Year - Hilda Huynh (Independence High School)

• Public Forum Debater of the Year - Collin Tong (Independence High School)

• Policy Debater Debater of the Year - Mandy Thach (Yerba Buena High School)

• Speaker of the Year - Augustina Apeh (Independence High School)

• New Coach of the Year - Aleesha Kashif (KIPP San Jose Collegiate)

• Team Spirit Award - Yerba Buena High School

• Rookie of the Year - Jasmine Sek (Overfelt High School)

• Judge of the Year - Luke Patusky

• Veteran Coach of the Year - Mitchy Rene (Silver Creek High School)

• Community Partner - Vu Quang (Yerba Buena Alumni)

• Most Valuable Teammates

  • Brandon Ho (Independence High School)

  • Alana Vu (Yerba Buena High School)

  • Stephanie Macedino (Luis Valdez Leadership Academy)

  • Elisa Nguyen (KIPP San Jose Collegiate)

  • Katelynn Nguyen (Silver Creek High School)

  • Logan Brown (Summit Preparatory High School)

  • Evelin Pinon (East Palo Alto Academy)

  • Isabella Hernandez(Latino College Preparatory Academy)

  • Charlie Tu (Mt. Pleasant High School)

  • Frankie Marin (Andrew Hill High School)

  • Floreza Daquioag (Overfelt High School)

  • Francisco Ibarra (James Lick High School)

Sharing final reflections, KIPP San Jose Collegiate student Julie Herrera-Castellanos offered, “At this tournament, I learned that giving yourself courage to get out of your comfort zone can lead to becoming your best self.” The SVUDL team continues to be deeply proud of all our student competitors. Congrats to all of our students on another successful tournament and to all of our 2026 champions and award winners. And thank you to the team at Yerba Buena High School for hosting and volunteering!

SVUDL Made Me More Grateful

For Latino College Prep Academy student Daniel Chavez, Speech and Debate has been more than an extracurricular activity — it has been a doorway to opportunities he never imagined for himself.

"The opportunities provided by SVUDL are phenomenal," Daniel says. "I've gained access to events like Words to the Wise and I RESOLVE, which gave me so many chances to meet new people. I'm especially grateful for the opportunity to compete nationally in World Schools Debate."

Beyond the tournaments and travel, Daniel points to the practical skills he's developed along the way. He credits SVUDL with sharpening his public speaking, refining his note-taking through techniques like flowing, and fundamentally changing how he engages with the world around him. "I feel sharper answering questions, more in tune with conversations — and I feel like I can finally win an argument," he says.

But the growth runs deeper than technique. "SVUDL has changed my perspective on life. The motions we debate have opened my eyes to real-world problems and how much change is needed in society. I'm more grateful now. I no longer take things for granted. My own problems feel smaller when I understand the scale of what's happening in the world."

That shift in perspective has carried over into Daniel's sense of purpose. "SVUDL gave me motivation to get out there. It gave me confidence. It gave me reasons to pursue my dream of becoming a lawyer. It made me a more informed person — and honestly, it gave me something meaningful to do on weekends beyond homework."

Remarkably, none of this was part of Daniel's plan. He first encountered debate through a class called the Art of Rhetoric and never expected it to stick. "I had no idea what SVUDL was," he admits. "My friend Hunter told me I should try debating and I said no — but then he mentioned there would be free food, and I was instantly in."

What followed was a string of memories he won't soon forget. At his very first tournament, the John Lewis SVUDL Invitational, Daniel placed second. He went on to place highly at numerous competitions and counts winning the SVUDL Championship in 2025 among the proudest accomplishments of his life. The journey also took him to the Tournament of Champions in Kentucky, where a last-round mix-up forced his team to concede after preparing the wrong side. "But I was still incredibly grateful just to be there, competing at that level,” Daniel recalls. Through every tournament and experience, one thing remains constant for Daniel: gratitude.

SVUDL Helped Me Come Out Of My Shell

For Silver Creek High School student Mikim Nguyen, SVUDL opened doors she once thought were closed. "SVUDL has given me access to tournaments I never thought I'd be able to compete in. I've participated in over a dozen local Speech and Debate competitions that might otherwise have felt out of reach. Many of my friends at other schools worry about finding money for entry fees or recruiting parents to judge — I get to focus entirely on preparing and improving. SVUDL removed those barriers, giving me equal access to opportunities and allowing me to grow as a competitor with less stress and more confidence."

That access translated into real, transferable skills. "I've learned how to communicate my ideas confidently, even on complex or controversial topics," she explained. "I've practiced structuring speeches with clear claims, warrants, and impacts — so I can explain not just what I believe, but why it matters. Most importantly, SVUDL gave me the confidence to use my voice and speak up for what I believe in."

Those skills extend well beyond the competition floor. "I've learned to manage my time, balance competing responsibilities, think critically, and make decisions quickly under pressure. I've learned how to work with teammates, give and receive feedback, and keep improving. I've gained resilience, confidence, and the ability to communicate clearly — in academic settings and in everyday life."

What surprised Mikim most, though, was the culture she found. "The most impactful part of my SVUDL experience has been the way we celebrate each other — even as competitors. Instead of treating opponents as enemies, we genuinely support each other's growth and cheer on each other's successes. Whether it's praising someone's speech after a round or clapping for the person who placed above you, the sense of community is real. That environment taught me that winning feels amazing — but watching others succeed feels just as rewarding."

SVUDL also changed who Mikim is as a person. "SVUDL helped me come out of my shell. Giving speeches, supporting my teammates, and putting myself out there at tournaments made me more comfortable using my voice. I'm no longer afraid to share my ideas or ask questions, even in competitive spaces. And it's made me more supportive of others, too — I've learned to genuinely celebrate the people around me, not just myself. Through SVUDL, I've become not only more confident, but more compassionate."

That spirit of mutual encouragement is what Mikim loves most. "What I enjoy most about SVUDL is the community within the competition. I love the thrill of speaking and pushing myself in rounds — but what makes me happiest is the support from the people around me. After some of my rounds, people I'd just met would come up to compliment my speech or tell me they appreciated a specific idea I'd shared. Those moments mean a lot. They remind me that my voice is being heard and valued beyond just a ranking — and that we're all here to learn from each other."

Debate Became One of the Only Places Where I Felt I Belonged

William Nguyen, a senior at Yerba Buena High School, has discovered powerful tools through SVUDL to advocate for what matters most to him.

"Over the past four years, SVUDL has enriched my knowledge and empowered my voice," he reflected. "Learning about Kritik debate from my team captains transformed Policy Debate into a space where I could explore my identity as a Vietnamese American. As I immersed myself in literature about immigration, nativism, and settler colonialism, I gained the advocacy skills needed to articulate my grievances with the status quo and envision my role in creating a more just world. Without Speech and Debate, I don't think I would have developed these skills. In today's world, the issues we debate feel incredibly relevant to the challenges our society faces."

What strikes William as most impactful is how SVUDL has shaped him into a more caring, thoughtful person. "During my freshman year, I struggled to connect with others and didn't have many friends. Debate became one of the only places where I felt I belonged. Learning from my teammates changed my perspective on what it meant to be a debater—it wasn't just about competing at tournaments, but about enjoying our time together. I saw how much my team cared about my well-being over the years, and I hope they know how much I care about them, too."

He cherishes the memories he's made along the way. "I'll never forget my first SVUDL tournament—the 2022 Sojourner Truth Tournament. After placing 37th out of 37 teams, I questioned whether I wanted to continue. But my team rallied around me, offering strategic advice and sharing their own stories of loss. They showed me I had potential to improve and grow. Now, three years later, having qualified to represent SVUDL at the 2026 Urban Debate National Championship, I can see how far I've come. That first tournament is now the first story I tell new members!"

His favorite part of SVUDL has been the community. "When I joined as a freshman, I was nervous seeing how tight-knit the other debaters were. But they quickly welcomed me, and I made friends I would learn from, grow with, and watch thrive. Practices became venues where we shared stories from our lives. It was always meaningful to connect during both struggles and successes. This debate community is what I'll miss most after graduation."

William recognizes SVUDL's profound influence on his college applications. "Throughout the process, I constantly reflected on my Speech and Debate experiences. Most of my essays related to debate and those that didn’t still drew on lessons from SVUDL. While I've long planned to major in Biology, SVUDL has inspired me to continue exploring my identity by also pursuing Asian American Studies. I plan to bring critical thinking and analytical skills from debate to wherever I attend."

He deeply appreciates SVUDL's mission and its impact on a brighter future. "Having diverse voices is crucial to building a brighter, more equitable world because it empowers students from marginalized communities to express ourselves. Too often, our society suppresses voices critical of the status quo—a problem exacerbated by educational disparities along racial lines. In such a divisive time, it's more important than ever that students can make their voices heard the way SVUDL has enabled me to make mine heard. By creating a platform for diverse voices, SVUDL has empowered the next generation of students in our league to keep fighting for a more fair world."

Honoring Legacies of Courage and Change

The Larry Itliong Tournament is named after one of the most influential labor organizers in California history. A Filipino American labor leader, Itliong was a key architect of the farmworker movement and a central figure in launching the Delano Grape Strike, which helped unite Filipino and Mexican farmworkers in a shared fight for dignity and fair treatment. Through organizing, negotiation, and solidarity across communities, Itliong worked to improve conditions for workers who had long been excluded from protection and recognition.

SVUDL honors his legacy by encouraging students to develop strong public speaking and critical thinking skills through Speech and Debate. By doing so, we aim to empower the next generation of leaders and advocates to speak up, build coalitions, and fight for justice.

65 students from 10 of our partner schools participated in our first tournament of 2026, coming together as a community to compete and hone their oratorical skills. The tournament took place at James Lick Highschool in San José.

As one coach reflected on the impact of the experience for new competitors:

“Larry Itliong was the first tournament for 5 of my students. Many went into this tournament with bravery knowing they were going to be challenged today, and they came out joyous, full, and with many new friends.

I am grateful to the SVUDL community for making our tournaments a safe space for beginners to learn and practice, and for the fire this tournament ignited for my new students to grow their speaking skills and begin preparing for the final march to the SVUDL League Championship Tournament.” (Aleesha Kashif, KIPP San Jose Collegiate)

In addition, this tournament served as the qualifying tournament to determine which SVUDL team would represent the league at the Urban Debate League National Championship tournament at Harvard University in April. SVUDL will be sending 2 teams in the Policy division, from Independence High School and Yerba Buena High School and 1 team in the Debate en Español division from Andrew Hill High School.

In addition, two of our students recently had the opportunity to compete at the Martin Luther King Jr. Invitational, a long-standing Speech and Debate tournament hosted at James Logan High School in Union City, California.

Held in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the tournament brings together students from across the region to engage in rigorous competition while celebrating Dr. King’s legacy of empowering young voices, promoting competition diversity, and encouraging social justice through performance and research-based advocacy.

Mikim Nguyen

For students, the experience was both challenging and inspiring. Mikim Nguyen (Silver Creek High School) shared how rewarding it was to compete alongside some of the strongest speakers in the region:

“Competing in the MLK tournament the past weekend was such a rewarding experience. It definitely isn’t easy waking up at 6 AM and competing with the best competitors in the region, but I feel like it is worth it to witness and take notes on what makes someone such a good speaker. I got to talk with others from different schools and discuss their strategies for doing well at a tournament, which helps me improve my own speaking for the future.”

Zakaria Aissous

For Zakaria Aissous (Silver Creek High School), MLK marked a meaningful return to in-person competition after focusing on other commitments:

“Because of cross country running and science olympiad commitments, I didn't go to any in-person tournaments before this one. MLK, which is a circuit tournament, as my first one that I competed in Speech for over 2 years was really hard. But it reminded me how fun Speech can be and the importance of structure as well as reigniting a passion for debating that I've been kind of losing this year.”

Silver Creek’s Teacher Coach, Madam Rene, also reflected positively on the experience, noting the welcoming atmosphere and strong organization of the event. Despite previous years being much colder, this year was more comfortable, and the campus buzzed with activity. She highlighted how kind and accommodating the student volunteers were, always ready to help and create a supportive environment for competitors and coaches alike.

Overall, the MLK Invitational provided a powerful space for learning, growth, and community, allowing students not only to sharpen their skills but also to connect with peers who share a passion for advocacy and expression.

Health Insurance Selected as 2026-2027 National Policy Debate Topic

The National Federation of State High School Associations has chosen national health insurance as the debate topic for high schools nationwide. With a decisive 23-8 margin, it beat out "Nuclear Weapons" to become the focus of the 2026-27 academic year.

Debaters will tackle this resolution: "The United States federal government should establish national health insurance in the United States."

The topic selection process brought together representatives from 31 state associations along with four national organizations—the National Speech and Debate Association, National Catholic Forensic League, National Association for Urban Debate Leagues, and National Debate Coaches Association. After meeting this past summer, delegates compiled five possible topics: Health Insurance, Nuclear Weapons, Carbon Pricing, Corporate Control, and Energy.

What made health insurance rise to the top? According to Chris Paulson, NFHS director of performing arts and sports, the answer is relevance. "Few issues are as timely or directly connected to the lives of students and their families as access to health care and insurance coverage," he noted. “This topic invites high school debaters to examine complex domestic policy questions and engage in thoughtful analysis of a system that affects nearly every American. Through this debate, students will strengthen their research, advocacy and critical-thinking skills while exploring one of the most relevant public policy issues in our nation today.”

Final Voting Results:

23 HEALTH INSURANCE

Resolved: The United States federal government should establish national health insurance in the United States.

8 NUCLEAR WEAPONS

Resolved: The United States federal government should substantially reduce the size and/or restrict the roles of its nuclear weapons arsenal.

Do you have expertise to share? Your knowledge will be incredibly valuable as our students prepare for this topic. We’re going to be scheduling topic lectures for our students starting this summer and we welcome your perspectives and insights as part of the series.

SVUDL Helped Me Deconstruct My Struggles

Debate began with a crushing defeat for Mandy Thach, a senior at Yerba Buena High School in San Jose. But that loss became the foundation for profound personal growth and a new vision for her future.

"During one of my first tournaments as a novice Policy Debater, I was the negative against a Kritik (a type of argument) that I was entirely unequipped to handle, barely even knowing what a Kritik was at the time," they recall. "I was totally shaken, spending my allotted half hour of speaking time in confused silence."

The experience was humbling, but it sparked something essential. "I wasn't too pleased after the round, but I was eager to know how to navigate the debate, what I could've said in response, and how much I'd be expected to know against such unfamiliarity. I'm sure I felt bitter then, but there's a fondness looking back on that loss knowing it enabled me to understand debate more intimately."

That tournament marked the beginning of a transformation that would reshape not just how Mandy competed, but how she saw herself.

"I entered my school's Speech and Debate Team as an awkward sophomore with little confidence in my speaking ability," they share. "As I began competing in SVUDL, I realized that debate would help me deconstruct my struggles through methodical practice rather than believing them to be intrinsic flaws of mine."

SVUDL provided more than just technical skills—it offered a new framework for approaching personal challenges. "The competition and practice I accessed pushed me to think of my qualms critically, and in a solution-oriented manner. This approach has alleviated my unease, helping me become a speaker with confidence and conviction."

SVUDL also redirected her career aspirations in unexpected ways.

"Prior to my experiences with SVUDL, I had wanted to pursue a career in law, though I didn't have a clear vision for the type of service I'd want to pursue as a lawyer," they explain. "I refined an affirmative policy-related plan that would be specific, actionable, and goal-oriented. Consequently, I became heavily interested with the content of my affirmative, which was based around mutual aid informed by my viewpoint as a Vietnamese-American. This level of involvement led me to take my interests outside of debate towards activist contributions to my community, and I've since refined my career aspirations to have a heavier emphasis on activism and social justice."

The skills developed through SVUDL have proven invaluable beyond the debate space. "My involvement with my community and the politics within it have called for navigation of high-pressure situations, where skills such as reasoning and argumentation would be imperative," she notes.

She has also learned to navigate skepticism about their voice and authority. "I find myself being doubted by members of my community due to my age or gender and dismissed as naive. The research and speaking abilities I've learned through debate, though perhaps not strong enough to rip through bias, have helped dislodge presumptions in my own, individual conversations."

What Mandy values most about SVUDL isn't just the competition—it's the community that has supported her growth every step of the way.

"The wisdom and support of SVUDL's community is incredibly precious to me. My team and coaches have not only uplifted me through their encouragement, but also by critiquing me and helping me resolve my struggles," they reflect. "Where I'd perform well, my team would always remind me of the value of an accomplishment, and where I'd have my shortcomings, they'd encourage me to improve and become a better version of myself."

This experience has deepened her understanding of why diverse voices matter in creating a better world.

"Diversity of voices is an agent by which people empathize and realize," she explains. "It's necessary that underrepresented voices have a presence and platform—their sentiments continue to be of value, regardless of the amount of discussion they attract. To produce an equitable world, it's necessary to hone that discussion and ensure it receives understanding and consideration."

From that first tournament spent in confused silence to becoming a confident advocate for her community, Mandy's journey with SVUDL demonstrates the transformative power of finding your voice—and learning how to use it.

SVUDL Wraps up 2025 with the Dolores Huerta Tournament

The Dolores Huerta Tournament is named after one of the most influential civil rights, workers rights, and feminist activists alive today. She worked to advocate for her community, and other communities like hers. We want SVUDL students to harness and grow the public speaking and critical thinking skills within themselves, by participating in Speech and Debate, to become the next generation of leaders and advocates.

The Dolores Huerta Tournament is the last tournament of the calendar year before students leave for the end of the semester. Over 90 students from across 11 different schools throughout San José and the Peninsula competed at SVUDL’s 2025 Dolores Huerta Tournament. This competition took place at Silver Creek High School in San José.

This year's tournament reflected the strength and sustainability of the SVUDL community, with nearly half of our judging pool made up of SVUDL alumni returning to support the next generation of competitors. Their presence underscored the lasting impact of the league and the importance of alumni participation to help us promote and maintain high standards of competition and mentorship.

In addition, SVUDL partnered with Teacher Coaches through a Community of Practice designed to give educators time and space to share successes, collaborate on challenges, and learn from one another's experiences over the course of the school year. These sessions supported teachers in setting goals and planning their practices, with the long-term aim of helping them feel more confident and comfortable taking ownership of their coaching roles.

This tournament marks an important step in our students ongoing season, marking the halfway point to our Championship Tournament in the spring. Tournaments like this make a difference in the academic and social opportunities available to our students, and we are grateful for the work our community and partners have done to help make yet another tournament a reality.

Thank you to Silver Creek High School for hosting. Have a wonderful holiday season!

SVUDL Hosts John Lewis Invitational

On the weekend of November 21-23, the John Lewis SVUDL Invitational hosted over 1,400 students from across the country to compete in 16 different events at Notre Dame High School in San Jose. Offering both University of Kentucky Tournament of Champions (UK-TOC) and National Individual Events Tournament of Champions (NIE-TOC) bids, our tournament is a great opportunity for SVUDL students to experience competitive Speech and Debate at the national circuit level.

A TOC bid is a point earned by top competitors in speech and debate. If a student wants to earn a bid, they must perform well at a major tournament. Many of these tournaments are hosted at places like Harvard, UC Berkeley, or Emory, and are the only way a student can gain entry into a TOC.

Mikim Nguyen, a senior at Silver Creek High School, had a great time at the tournament! She loves “...meeting people from all over the Bay Area and even people from over a hundred miles away.” and feels that the tournament has “a more competitive atmosphere” which empowers her to become a better competitor herself.

Students from 8 SVUDL schools participated in events such as World Schools Debate, Program of Oratorical Interpretation, Policy Debate, and Impromptu Speaking. Some of our students even made it to elimination rounds. Dhyana Desai, from Silver Creek High School, competed against 16 other students and placed second overall in Program of Oratorical Interpretation, which was one rank away from receiving a bid! In the Policy Debate division William Nguyen and Ryan Luu, two students from Yerba Buena High School, received first place in the round robin.

For Dhyana, the experience was deeply motivating. “Competing at the John Lewis Tournament was an incredibly rewarding experience. The strong competitors in my rounds and the performances I got to watch truly inspired me to push myself and elevate my own performance.”

Congratulations to all of our students who competed at the SVUDL John Lewis Invitational! And many thanks to Notre Dame High School for hosting us this year, and to the staff and volunteers who contributed to an amazing event!

Pineapple On Pizza Was The Spark That Lit My Flame for SVUDL

De'Angelo Quintero is a senior at Andrew P. Hill High School and a competitor in I RESOLVE 2025, a public debate presented by The National Association for Urban Debate Leagues, where SVUDL students focused their debate on affordable housing.

For De'Angelo, debate is more than winning arguments—it's about creating space for unheard voices to shape a more equitable world.

"Debate is at its core diverse. In fact, its essence is diversity," he explains. "How would we debate if we all had the same idea? Without discourse there is no discussion, and without discussion there is no innovation or evolution."

He sees debate as a crucial tool for societal progress. "It allows our world to hear new voices, and most importantly, it allows us to critique the ideas that arise from those who choose to speak out. Without critiquing ideas, we as a society wouldn't know where to go. Debate clears the fog of the future and allows us to see the bright path ahead."

SVUDL has profoundly shaped De'Angelo's trajectory and sense of self.

"SVUDL has, most importantly—and I truly mean this—allowed me to articulate my thoughts to just about anyone. I've become well aware of who I am," he shares. "The controlled discourse that SVUDL provides has taught me how to connect with anyone without overstepping boundaries."

As someone who aspires to run for public office one day, De'Angelo credits SVUDL with building his confidence. "Meeting fellow debaters and professionals across many fields has allowed me to engage with them without worrying about how I'm coming across."

But what strikes him as most impactful isn't just the professional connections—it's the friendships forged along the way.

New Voices at the Table

Katelynn Nguyen has already made history. As a senior at Silver Creek High School in San Jose, she became the first student in SVUDL's ten-year history to qualify for the CHSSA State Championships—a milestone that speaks not only to her dedication, but to the growing power of Speech and Debate itself.

Now, she's taking center stage once again at I RESOLVE 2025, a public debate hosted by The National Association for Urban Debate Leagues (NAUDL) and SVUDL. The event brings together high school debaters, civic leaders, educators, and debate advocates for a critical conversation on affordable housing.

As the event approached, nerves were inevitable. "There's always some degree of anxiety leading up to something like I RESOLVE," Katelynn admitted. "But I feel confident in our preparation. The SVUDL staff helps us 'overprepare'—they make sure we're ready for anything. I'm excited to see all our work come together."

For Katelynn, SVUDL has been transformative. "Debate has forced me to sit in discomfort, research deeply, and base my opinions on evidence rather than instinct," she reflected. "It has introduced me to people I never would have met otherwise and taught me how to build meaningful connections. Because of SVUDL, I've learned to advocate for myself and others in rooms where students usually don't get a say."

The opportunities have been life-changing. "I RESOLVE is just one example," she said. "These events have connected me to professionals I wouldn't have otherwise met. And the ability to dream big—to compete without worrying about financial barriers, to push myself to qualify for tournaments —that's been amazing."

Her experience has shaped her worldview. "In an increasingly polarized society, it's more important than ever that we have voices from all backgrounds contributing to the dialogue," she emphasized. "If you won't advocate for yourself, who will? Compassion comes from embracing people who look different than us and understanding where they come from. Real solutions come from diverse voices at the same table."

Looking back, Katelynn is struck by how far she's come. "When I joined Speech and Debate during my freshman year, I thought I'd just be giving speeches in classrooms and competing locally," she said. "I never imagined traveling to State Championships or participating in events like I RESOLVE with an advisor who genuinely supports me. I wasn't expecting how many doors SVUDL would open— and as a senior looking back, I wouldn't have it any other way."

What does she treasure most? "The people—hands down. The friends I've made, the staff who genuinely root for you, and the community you build with students from other schools. At tournaments, we're all acquaintances on day one. By day two, we're cheering each other on. It's incredibly fulfilling."

I RESOLVE 2025 Tackles the Topic of Affordable Housing

When high school students Katelynn Nguyen (Silver Creek High School) and De'Angelo Quintero (Andrew P. Hill High School) took the stage at DLA Piper in Palo Alto, they didn't only debate about the topic of affordable housing — they also demonstrated why the art of Speech and Debate itself is so powerful.

The I RESOLVE series, a partnership between the National Association for Urban Debate Leagues and SVUDL, brings the most pressing issues in our society into sharp focus through the eyes of tomorrow's leaders.

"SVUDL students grow as communicators who can captivate and persuade audiences. Critical thinking skills prepare students for leadership roles. Students become agents of change, thoughtfully considering the issues facing their communities," said SVUDL CEO Rolland Janairo.

Katelynn Nguyen made a compelling case for Housing First—an approach that prioritizes getting people off the streets immediately. Her argument cut through the complexity with a plea for action. The problem isn't the Housing First model, she argued—it's the execution.

De'Angelo Quintero focused on structural solutions: reforming the Costa-Hawkins Rental Housing Act and zoning regulations to implement rent control and expand development opportunities. His message was also based on urgency, but this time with an eye to rising costs.

This year's panelists - Mariam Ahmed, SVUDL Program Specialist and SVUDL alum, and Erin Baldassari, Senior Editor on Housing Affordability at KQED - praised the students for their nuanced understanding of the topic as well as their distinctive, yet equally effective, communication styles. The panelists’ feedback affirmed that both proposed solutions are powerful, and both are necessary as part of comprehensive change.

I RESOLVE demonstrates that students aren't just learning the skills of Speech and Debate—they're learning to lead, to analyze complex problems, and to articulate solutions with clarity and conviction. They're becoming the voices our communities need.

Thank you to NAUDL and our sponsors for making this event possible, as well as to DLA Piper as our hosts. And much gratitude as well to our panelists Mariam Ahmed and Erin Baldassari!

SVUDL Kicks Off 2025-26 Competitive Season with Sojourner Truth Tournament

In a time period where Black people and women of all races were legally excluded from the US’s political community, Sojourner Truth (1797-1893) advocated for radical justice, equality, and truth. More than a century later, on the other side of the country, over 90 students from across San José and the Peninsula harnessed the strength and determination embodied by Truth’s advocacy at SVUDL’s 2025 Sojourner Truth Tournament.

Traditionally SVUDL’s first Speech and Debate tournament of the school year, the Sojourner Truth Tournament is held annually in honor of Truth’s legacy as an agent for abolition and equal rights for all races and genders. Last month, 93 students convened to honor that legacy at SVUDL partner school Latino College Prep Academy in East San José.

Hailing from 12 different schools and competing across eight distinct events, this year’s entries exemplify how SVUDL has expanded its reach into schools as well as the competitive offerings available to students. In addition, SVUDL welcomed new Teacher Coaches Patrick Hightower (Luis Valdez Leadership Academy) and Jordan Stone (Independence High School) as they experienced their first tournament as coaches and judges.

The SVUDL team was excited to see a diverse array of new and established teams earning top places across all divisions, with award winners representing entries from nine different schools.

We congratulate all competitors for their dedication, courage, and integrity shown throughout the tournament.

Whether this tournament was their first Speech and Debate competition ever or just the first of the season, SVUDL is grateful to all attendees for their participation. We look forward to welcoming them, their peers, and their coaches to the rest of our tournaments this season!

Igniting Minds, Amplifying Voices: East Side Union High School Teachers Reimagine Learning through Debate

Earlier this month, thirty-five teachers from across the East Side Union High School District gathered at Yerba Buena High School for two days that turned professional development into lively, engaging learning. Hosted by the Silicon Valley Urban Debate League (SVUDL), the two-day workshop — Igniting Minds, Amplifying Voices — immersed participants in Debate Centered Instruction (DCI), an approach that transforms ordinary lessons into spaces for argumentation, reasoning, and authentic student voice.

Many teachers arrived unsure what debate might look like outside a traditional speech class, but they left with a renewed sense of possibility. One participant captured the mood succinctly: debate, they said, “brings opportunities for critical thinking and further engagement in the classroom.”

Day One: Arguing Grammar and Greatness

The first day plunged teachers straight into the experience of being students again. In a spirited Language Arts activity titled What Part of Speech is the Best?, groups championed nouns, verbs, prepositions, and other grammatical forms. Using a debate created by SVUDL’s sister league, the Boston Debate League teachers crafted claims, marshaled evidence, and delivered closing arguments while other attendees acted as judges. A DCI Fellow from Independence High School, Gretchen Larese, led the session in front of fellow teachers, and this had a deep impact on attendees.

Several teachers remarked that completing the debate themselves “showed me a formulated way of talking about a subject and combined fact-based arguments, logical progressions, and a competitive spirit.” Another appreciated “the focus on using evidence to support arguments instead of allowing outside evidence to overflow the main argument,” noting how clearly the exercise modeled the Claim-Evidence-Reasoning (CER) framework central to Common Core standards.

For some, the design of the lesson was as enlightening as its content. “Role assignments definitely pushed everyone to be involved and engaged,” one teacher wrote, while another pointed out that “the entire structure of the full-class debate can be adapted in my class — the clear group roles ensure individual accountability.”

The afternoon brought a dramatic change in tone and subject. The Math GOAT Debate asked, Who is the greatest baseball player of all time? Teachers drew on batting averages and fielding percentages to argue for legends such as Babe Ruth and Willie Mays. The exercise made data come alive; as one teacher wrote, it demonstrated “ways to support a claim with statistically relevant evidence.”

By day’s end, participants agreed that seeing debate modeled was invaluable. “I really enjoyed seeing a debate simulation to see how I can model this for my own students,” one teacher reflected. Another noted it clarified “how to make debate work for everyone and ensure that all groups have experts in the content area.”The consensus: structure and play can coexist — and when they do, student engagement follows.

Day Two: Scaffolding the Skills of Argument

If the first day captured the energy of a full-class debate, the second day turned to the scaffolds that make such engagement possible. Teachers rotated through shorter activities that build specific skills: questioning, reasoning, and collaborative evidence use.

In Pass the Paper, each participant contributed one element — a claim, a piece of evidence, reasoning, or revision — to a circulating argument on a question often encountered in a Social Sciences class: Was the United States justified in dropping nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki? The process, one teacher observed, focused on “keeping students engaged and participating at all times.”

The morning also featured a Class Challenge activity titled: What Is the Best Question?, a humanities-based exercise that trains students to move from factual to interpretive questioning. Teachers analyzed historical cartoons and worked together to write “thick” questions about perspective, bias, and context.

STEM teachers found particular value in the Four Corners and Carousel strategies examined in the afternoon, which merge movement, visuals, and technical vocabulary. One participant highlighted “how many different ways you can incorporate DCI strategies into engaging activities that also include STEM/Art characteristics,” while another appreciated that “the four-corner activity is less threatening for students and increases collaboration.”

Inclusivity emerged as a defining theme. Teachers discussed differentiating for diverse learners, remarking that DCI provided “learning techniques that allow all students with IEPs to interact with each other.”

From Practice to Reflection

After two days of hands-on learning, the exit reflections painted a consistent picture: teachers saw DCI as rigorous, adaptable, and immediately applicable.

The biggest takeaway? “That debate can be implemented in all subjects and in many different manners,” and, in particular, that “debate can be used in Math class!!!!” For many, the workshop reignited a passion for engagement. Teachers described finding “new ways and activities that would make my students more engaged.”

One extended reflection stitched these threads together as a participant asked themselves:

“How many more opportunities for pushing students to provide evidence and reasoning for their claims can I work into my class? I can see places where this would naturally support students with argumentative writing, push them towards critical thinking, and add a little extra to some of the things I’ve tried before where students didn’t seem as engaged.”

That sentiment — the realization that debate deepens thinking rather than distracts from it — captured the workshop’s purpose.

A Culture of Voice

By Friday afternoon, the Student Union was buzzing again — not with competition, but with conversation. Teachers compared notes on how they might adapt DCI for English Language Learners, lab-based science, or social studies simulations. Many were already planning to try the Parts of Speech debate or Four Corners activity in the coming weeks.

The PD ended with an invitation to join the 2025–2026 DCI Fellowship, which will provide deeper DCI coaching and classroom visits. Yet for many, the most valuable takeaway had already happened: they had experienced learning as their students should — through curiosity, evidence, and voice.

SVUDL Advisory Committee: Exploring A Wider Range of Career Paths

Michael Caulkins's own career journey demonstrates how Speech and Debate skills translate across disciplines. Starting as a mechanical engineer, he went on to earn his law degree from Santa Clara University School of Law, where he served as Senior Production Editor of the Santa Clara High Tech Law Journal. Today, he represents leading technology companies in complex patent litigation involving everything from wearable devices and smart home technology to telecommunications and semiconductor chips.

"What resonates most about SVUDL's mission is its focus on giving young people a real chance to be heard and to succeed, no matter their background," said Michael. "When I was growing up, I spent ten years working with Bridges to Community, helping build homes for earthquake victims in Nicaragua. That experience showed me how much it means for someone to have support and to know that others believe in their potential. SVUDL's work feels like a natural extension of those values."

"My personal connection to Speech and Debate comes from my journey through law school and my career in IP litigation," Michael explained. "I've seen firsthand how crafting arguments, thinking on your feet, and advocating for clients can open doors and build confidence. I appreciate how transformative it can be for young people to start building these skills early."

"I use the skills developed in Speech and Debate every day in my practice," he continued. "Whether I'm working with my team to solve a complex legal issue or preparing for a hearing, critical thinking and clear communication are essential. I see these skills in action all around me—colleagues using them to analyze complex technical issues, present clear arguments in court, and work closely with experts and clients to build strong cases."

Annie Matheu’s life story began with her parents immigrating to the United States from China. She learned English when she started school, and leveraged skills learned mainly in debate to ultimately land jobs on Wall Street, Google, and now Waymo. Speech and Debate played a major role in that trajectory.

“There are so many skills that debate hones, but I think the most universal ones are skills like these: public speaking, active listening, rapid analysis, argument construction, critical thinking, clear communication, technical research, and intellectual strategy. Debate taught me to think on my feet. I learned how to recover from loss and disappointment. I went from ‘fake it until you make it’ to developing true confidence through repetition and continued practice. I gained all these universal skills from debate!” she emphasized.

Annie remembers aspects of being a high school debater that stay with her to this day. One memory in particular is a piece of incredible advice from a debate coach: Don’t visualize success - what’s the point? Visualize failure - then solve all the ways it can go wrong.

“I loved the diligence and research in pre-round prep. I also enjoyed trying to think of all the arguments and counter-arguments and then investing the time and energy into designing rebuttals and strategies. It was the first time I had engaged in intellectual competition. It was thrilling to learn that just as you can train your muscles to get stronger to compete with opponents in a sports environment, you can also train your brain to get stronger to compete with opponents in a debate environment,” she recalled.

Annie recognizes that the skills of Speech and Debate are essential for anyone in any field whether navigating a career or everyday interactions. “I think conflict in any environment – whether academic, work, or interpersonal – is unavoidable. The skills you learn in debate such as thinking before speaking, communicating clearly and succinctly, and seeing another side's point of view really gives you a step-change in being able to handle and resolve conflict,” she reflected.

We're honored to have Michael and Annie leading this evolution—helping SVUDL students explore new career possibilities that their Speech and Debate skills can help them uncover.

A Parent's Perspective

When parents think about their child's extracurricular activities, they often focus on the immediate benefits—keeping kids busy, building friendships, and adding something to a college application. But some experiences go deeper, fundamentally shaping not just the student, but impacting the entire family. For Amit, whose son Ojas joined SVUDL in 10th grade, Speech and Debate became exactly that kind of transformative journey.

"From that year on, he became more confident in his communication skills and started becoming more articulate in his speaking," Amit reflected. "I noticed him taking on more leadership roles at school and becoming genuinely excited about the topics that debate explored."

What surprised Amit most wasn't just the improvement in his son's speaking abilities, but the sophistication that emerged. "From the rounds I watched, I remember him being poised when speaking with others, and using advanced articulation in the words he chose to describe his arguments.”

The benefits extended far beyond tournament performance. SVUDL helped Ojas develop crucial life skills that enhanced his overall academic experience. "Participating in SVUDL helped him manage his time more effectively and productively," Amit explains. "The research and problem-solving skills he developed proved invaluable for his high school coursework and college essay preparation."

Initially unfamiliar with competitive debate, Amit gradually recognized why this activity was uniquely valuable. "Through gaining insight from Ojas, I was able to identify several compelling aspects," he says. "First, there's the development of critical thinking and communication skills. Second, the logic-building component was incredibly attractive. Most importantly, debate builds confidence through conviction in one's voice. And finally, the exposure to diverse perspectives—learning to argue both sides of complex issues—fosters empathy, open-mindedness, and a deeper understanding of complex topics."

SVUDL proved to be more than just an academic activity; it became a genuine community. "SVUDL is a tight-knit environment where students feel truly seen and heard," Amit observes. "My son was given multiple unique opportunities to connect with different schools, engage with lawyers and law-oriented activities, and build memorable experiences."

The program's impact on peer relationships was particularly meaningful. "SVUDL fostered engagement among participants, encouraging discussion about the world and investigation of topics that truly matter," he explains. "It created a sense of community and belonging where high school students and staff who care deeply about Speech and Debate could discuss their opinions openly without fear of judgment. My son connected with remarkable individuals from diverse backgrounds and surrounding schools, forming valuable friendships. He also met coaches, judges, and staff members who encouraged him throughout his debate journey."

Supporting a debate student requires significant family involvement, something Amit embraced wholeheartedly. "I helped mainly with transportation—driving my son along with his friends and partners to tournaments. But I also regularly questioned him about debate topics and offered assistance on subjects requiring insight about technology or climate change, which I would research myself. I found it fascinating to proofread his cases occasionally and listen to his post-tournament debriefs."

Maintaining balance was crucial. "We treated Speech and Debate like a serious commitment – which it was - similar to a sport or academic club," Amit explains. "We shared calendars to track practices, tournaments, and deadlines, planning ahead for busy weekends. At the same time, knowing how late my son and his debate friends stayed up researching, I encouraged healthy sleeping habits. For traveling, we often carpooled to maximize efficiency and allow debaters to prepare during the drive. After tournaments, we celebrated wins and encouraged growth after losses."

Drawing from his experience, Amit offers practical guidance for parents whose children are beginning their debate journey:

Be patient initially and understand that debate is time-intensive—but recognize this as a positive attribute overall.

Focus on the process rather than immediate results. Building the skills that lead to consistent success will take time.

Help with organization. Debaters manage extensive research documents and need systematic approaches to stay on top of everything.

Listen and be available. Offer help when you have knowledge about topics or when they have questions.

Get involved when possible. Attend tournaments, volunteer, or assist with travel logistics. Debate becomes a family commitment where student support and motivation are essential.

Amit believes SVUDL prepared his son for future challenges in ways traditional classroom learning alone could not. "While classroom learning builds foundational knowledge, Speech and Debate pushes students to think critically under pressure, communicate persuasively, and respond thoughtfully to opposing viewpoints while respecting the arguments themselves," he reflects. "I see tremendous value in these skills that SVUDL promotes. I learned these skills much later in my career, so it's remarkable that students can develop them at this early age."

Amit's own worldview expanded through his son's debate experience. "Debate topics cover controversial and complex issues—immigration, climate policy, criminal justice, artificial intelligence, healthcare, and more. Watching my son research and argue both sides challenged our family's assumptions, particularly on political topics, and inspired us to approach political conversations with greater openness and curiosity."

The learning continues beyond high school. "My son brought up fascinating facts and insights about the American political landscape that helped our family better navigate news and media while understanding biases in different sources. Even today, Ojas regularly introduces topics of interest in daily conversations, inspired by the critical thinking skills he acquired through Speech and Debate."

For Amit, SVUDL represents more than an extracurricular activity—it's been a catalyst for growth that touched every aspect of his family's life. From watching his son develop confidence and articulation skills to expanding his own perspective on complex issues, the debate experience created ripple effects that continue to benefit the entire family.

"It truly makes a big difference to have engaged parents championing their child's journey," Amit concludes, embodying the very support and dedication that helps students thrive in the SVUDL community and beyond.

SVUDL Visits Gap Inc. in San Francisco

Last month, SVUDL students and alumni had the opportunity to visit Gap Inc. headquarters in San Francisco: home to renowned brands such as Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Athleta. The experience was an immersive dive into the world of leadership, fashion, personal and career growth.

The visit began with students being welcomed by Matthew Irwin, Gap Inc. (Vice President, Deputy General Counsel) and part of SVUDL’s Legal Advisory Committee, and Ana Branscombe (Senior Manager - Real Estate Law). The group engaged in a tour with thoughtful conversation and questions to learn more about their careers, and understanding the work of the legal team behind it all.

As students explored the stores of Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, and Athleta located in the corporate headquarters building, they were introduced to the history and cultural impact of each brand by sales representatives. They also toured the headquarters office space, where Matthew and Ana gave an inside look at how the company has evolved over time, and the careers and opportunities Gap has created. During a lunch break, students and alumni asked questions ranging from “How do you become the next CEO?” to “How do you balance having a personal life with work?”

The group was then invited to a panel discussion featuring five remarkable GAP HQ professionals:

Matthew Irwin - Vice President, Deputy General Counsel

Ana Branscombe - Senior Manager, Real Estate Law

Karla Franklin - Vice President, Deputy General Counsel

Vanessa Henlon - Senior Counsel, Real Estate Law

Will Riffelmacher - Vice President, Deputy General Counsel

Each panelist offered a candid look into their personal journeys: how they entered the industry, the unexpected pivots along the way, and the challenges they overcame. Their stories underscored a powerful message: there is no single path to success. Many described moments of uncertainty where they had to go back to the drawing board, take risks, and trust their instincts.

SVUDL attendees were inspired and gained insights into everything from a day in the life of a legal professional to the academic and personal journeys it took to get here. These stories resonated with them, many expressed aspirations to pursue careers in law, business, and entrepreneurship.

A huge thank you to Matthew and the team for welcoming and giving us the opportunity to explore and learn about the world of Gap Inc.!

Agency Through Voice

Belle Borovik brings a unique perspective to intellectual property law as a trained neuroscientist turned attorney. As a key member of the Robins Kaplan Intellectual Property and Technology Group, Belle represents clients in a broad range of intellectual property matters, focusing on the unique challenges at the intersection of frontier technologies and intellectual property law. 

As an immigrant who arrived in the U.S. at thirteen, she learned right away that language could be both a barrier and a tool. In the process of learning English, she had a lasting revelation: there’s a difference between speaking and communicating. 

But Belle's most profound expertise comes from a different kind of study—the meticulous process of learning to communicate across cultures and languages.

"Speaking is about words. Communicating is about clarity, nuance, timing, and connection," Belle reflects. "English is filled with subtle cues, layered meanings, and cultural rhythms that aren't written in any textbook. I realized that if I wanted to be heard—truly heard—I couldn't just speak. I had to learn to communicate."

This realization set Belle on a deliberate path of skill development. She practiced unfamiliar sounds, training new muscle movements. She studied cadence, pacing, and inflection—not merely to be understood, but to make meaning resonate. Most importantly, she learned to speak in ways that commanded attention and held it.

"It wasn't about assimilation or losing where I came from," she emphasizes. "It was about gaining access. It was about developing the kind of voice that could shape conversations, shift rooms, and open doors.”

Though Belle never participated in high school Speech and Debate, the need to advocate was always present, shaping her development in quieter ways. 

“That’s what SVUDL gives students: power through language. Agency through voice. When I look at the mission of SVUDL, I see the path I had to carve out for myself and I think how much more direct that path could have been if I had had access to the kind of resources and mentorship SVUDL provides,” she emphasized.

Law school transformed that foundation into strategic advocacy. Belle joined Moot Court and discovered her passion for structured, strategic argument.

At the University of San Francisco School of Law, the Advocate of the Year competition is a major milestone. She approached it with total focus. She rewrote her brief until every sentence held up under pressure. She ran arguments out loud alone, with classmates, and with her family.

Belle won the competition, opening doors that led to her first legal position, where she met the mentor who shaped her current path at Robins Kaplan.

For the early rounds, she focused all her energy on the side she felt most aligned with. “But in the final round, I lost the coin toss and got the side I hadn’t prepared for, and didn’t agree with. So, I started over. I rebuilt the argument from a different angle, and learned a powerful lesson: strong advocacy isn’t just about defending what you believe. It’s about understanding what others believe and making space for logic, even where instinct resists,” she remembered.

Belle sees Speech and Debate skills as lifetime tools that extend far beyond competition or courtroom. "These skills teach you how to listen thoughtfully, think critically, and speak purposefully—valuable in every part of life."

The impact goes deeper than winning arguments. "It's about learning how to build them. Learning how to be understood. And perhaps most importantly, learning how to advocate for others, not just yourself." 

"Potential doesn't flourish on its own—it needs opportunity, structure, and guidance to take root," Belle explains. "SVUDL provides exactly that, equipping students with the skills, support, and space they need to grow into confident thinkers, speakers, and change-making leaders."

The partnership represents shared values. "At Robins Kaplan, we believe advocacy is both skill and responsibility. SVUDL's work mirrors our commitment to developing strategic thinkers who use their voices to drive progress."

Thank you Robins Kaplan for your generous support of Words to the Wise 2025!