The Harvard Debate Council is an undergraduate student organization at Harvard College, founded in 1892 and directed by Dr. Tripp Rebrovick — making it one of the oldest and most storied intercollegiate debate programs in the nation. At the heart of the Harvard Debate Council is its competitive team, which fields Harvard College students at the National Debate Tournament (NDT) and at major intercollegiate policy debate tournaments throughout the academic year governed by the Cross Examination Debate Association (CEDA). The team operates at the highest level of college debate, representing a tradition of intellectual rigor, competitive excellence, and a deep commitment to the art of argumentation.

Debating at Harvard is one of the most intellectually rigorous and rewarding experiences that the University can offer. Generations of debaters have honed their intellectual and rhetorical skills under Dr. Rebrovick’s leadership and guidance, going on to careers of success, service, and national and international prominence. Any Harvard College student with an interest in debate is welcome to join the team — no prior debate experience is required, only a passion for ideas, a willingness to work hard, and a desire to engage with the most challenging policy questions of our time.

Harvard College students interested in joining the team are encouraged to contact us to learn more.