Who We Are

Over the more than 40 years of her debate experience, Dr. Marilyn J. Young has created a long lasting legacy for hundreds of students and colleagues.  Now, at her behest, and in her honor, we are working to share that legacy. 

The Intercollegiate Debate program has been a part of the Florida State University experience for more than a century, and its rich history of competitive success and academic achievement continues to this day.  Given the funding realities of the 21st century, to secure the future of Florida State Debate, it is crucial to move beyond inconsistent short-term annual funding and provide long-term financial backing for the program.  Established in 2014, the Marilyn J. Young Debate Endowment will generate enough interest income to ensure that the opportunity to debate is available for students into perpetuity.  A consistent faculty presence is vital to the long-term future of the program by providing a voice and vision for the value of competitive debate in the modern world.

How the Program Benefits Our Students 

The Florida State University debate and speech teams have consistently qualified students to compete against many of America’s finest undergraduate scholars. Participation in the program provides students with opportunities to develop skills in public speaking, leadership, critical thinking, time management and advanced writing and research. The program has consistently received top Florida program rankings at all state, regional and national competitions. Participants have testified that the skills they have learned have helped them become better lawyers, teachers, clergy, business people and leaders in many fields.

How You Can Help

Florida State University is dedicated to preserving the prestige of our nationally acclaimed debate and speech program. Your support is vital in shaping its future and continuing our legacy of excellence. By joining this initiative, you become a key contributor in ensuring that upcoming generations of students have the priceless opportunity to flourish and learn through debate and speech.

Your generous contribution will provide a lifeline of ongoing support. It will enable us to host enriching student workshops, cover travel expenses to national tournaments, and ensure active participation in campus events and various team-related activities. Your gift is not just a donation; it's an investment in the minds and talents of future leaders honed by FSU's distinguished program.

Your support will help ensure the future of Florida State Debate. Thank you for your generosity!

For details about the Marilyn J. Young Endowment, visit https://youngdebate.org/young-debate-endowment

To connect with debate alumni and friends and learn more about Florida State Debate, visit https://youngdebate.org/.