Debate on the Plaza: Cookies & Conversations

Duke University Debating Society will host “Debate on the Plaza: Cookies & Conversations” on Bryan Center Plaza as an open, interactive outreach event designed to introduce the broader Duke community to debate and public discourse.

During the event, current members of Duke Debate will engage students passing through BC Plaza in short, informal debates on accessible topics. The goal is to create a welcoming environment where students can learn about debate, ask questions about the organization, and participate in short practice debates themselves.

The event is intentionally designed to broaden participation in debate beyond the small subset of students who attend competitive tournaments. By hosting a public event in a central campus location and providing light refreshments, we aim to encourage students from across Duke to stop by, engage in discussion, and learn about opportunities to get involved with debate regardless of prior experience.

This programming initiative directly reflects feedback from Student Government funding discussions, encouraging student organizations to prioritize programming that benefits the broader Duke undergraduate population. Rather than limiting engagement to tournament competitors, this event allows any student to participate in debate activities, interact with members, and explore the educational value of argumentation, critical thinking, and public speaking.

Providing cookies and snacks helps create a welcoming and low-barrier environment that encourages students to stop, participate in discussions, and stay engaged with the activity.

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