Forensic Union Takes Fifth Place at National Championship

Truman’s Forensic Union won fifth place in Lincoln-Douglas Debate Sweepstakes at the 2016 National Forensic Association National Championship Tournament April 16-17.
 
In addition to a strong sweepstakes placing, the team broke four debaters to elimination rounds. Senior Dillon Laaker and freshman Jack Eames both advanced to double-octofinals, ranking them in the top 32 LD debaters nationally. Freshmen Johnathan Christy and Tyler Behymer advanced to octofinals, ranking them in the top 16. Laaker also was awarded ninth speaker, meaning he was recognized as one of the top 10 debate speakers in the nation.

One of Truman Forensics’ alumni was also given special recognition at the tournament. Shane Mecham, who competed for Truman between 1997 and 2001, was inducted into the NFA Hall of Fame, an honor reserved for those who demonstrated excellence in competition and have continued to support forensics in their career and community work.

Participation in the forensics program is open to any Truman student in good standing, regardless of prior speech and debate experience. For more information on how to get involved, visit forensics.truman.edu, contact Christopher Outzen, director of forensics, or contact Craig Hennigan, assistant director of forensics.