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Rebel Debate Institute

Welcome to the Rebel Debate Institute at the University of Nevada Las Vegas!

Are you a middle school or high school student passionate about debate? Are you eager to enhance your skills and dominate in Lincoln Douglas and Public Forum styles of debate? Look no further than the Rebel Debate Institute—a dynamic, intensive, and transformative one-week program designed to elevate your debate prowess.

Join us for an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the art of argumentation and persuasion. Led by seasoned debate instructors and renowned experts in the field, our program offers a comprehensive curriculum tailored to sharpen your analytical thinking, eloquence, and strategic reasoning.

Events

What sets the Rebel Debate Institute apart?

Expert Guidance

Learn from accomplished instructors with years of experience in competitive debate. We offer group as well as one-on-one instruction.

Skill Enhancement

Master the intricacies of Lincoln Douglas and Public Forum debate formats through interactive workshops, practice rounds, and a mini tournament, refining your speaking, critical thinking, and rebuttal techniques. Real-world Application: Gain invaluable skills applicable to academics, professional endeavors, and everyday life, empowering you to articulate your ideas persuasively and confidently. Students who engage in debate are more ready to succeed in their university careers.

Collaborative Environment

Engage with like-minded peers from diverse backgrounds, fostering a supportive and intellectually stimulating atmosphere that encourages growth and camaraderie.

UNLV Campus Experience

Immerse yourself in the vibrant campus life of the University of Nevada Las Vegas, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities and resources to elevate your learning experience. Learn to reaserch and speak like a pro!

Whether you're a novice seeking to build a strong foundation or a seasoned debater aiming to refine your expertise, the Rebel Debate Institute caters to all skill levels, offering a challenging journey toward success.

Middle school speech and argument camp takes place in June. High school Lincoln Douglas and Public Forum camps are in July.

Don't miss the chance to unlock your full potential and become a persuasive, articulate, and confident debater. Join us at the Rebel Debate Institute and prepare to conquer the world of competitive debate!

Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and embark on an unforgettable week of intellectual growth and competitive fervor at the Rebel Debate Institute, University of Nevada Las Vegas.

Rebel Debate Institute Faculty

Headshot of Craig Hennigan

Dr. Craig Hennigan

Dr. Craig Hennigan has been involved in speech and debate as a competitor, judge, and coach for over 30 years in multiple circuits. He has coached state champion policy debaters from West Bloomfield high school and Wayne State University. He has also coached champions in speech and debate at Truman State university for 7 years before becoming the director of debate at UNLV. His experience runs across multiple styles of speech and debate including interpretive events, public address events, public forum debate, Lincoln-Douglas, Policy and Parliamentary styles.

Portrait of Dillon Brouwer

Dillon Brouwer

Dillon Brouwer, is a two time Alum of RDI and our current UNLV debate co-president. Dillon attended RDI in 2018 & 2019, he has since enjoyed great success with debate on both the high school and college level. Competing with UNLV, Dillon has championed multiple tournaments in both Speech and Debate, and has competed at nationals each year. His free time is spent working at local theaters, playing badminton and traveling to new places with his friends and family.

Portrait of Julia Sidley

Julia Sidley is a co-president of UNLV debate. Her experience includes helping run the Sacramento Urban Debate League day camp where she taught a modified type of parliamentary debate. She has been a nationally competitive policy debater and Lincoln-Douglas debater. Her depth of knowledge on commonly run arguments is an asset to the RDI.

Contact

Contact Interim Director of Debate Craig Hennigan for details - craig.hennigan@unlv.edu