BHSU FORENSICS PROGRAM

Forensics (Speech and Debate)

Forensics at BHSU is strictly co-curricular and exists as an adjunct to the academic program. The team meets in Plato's Cave (Jonas 208A) and is open to all BHSU undergraduate students. As the team budget is limited, travel is restricted to students demonstrating the appropriate effort, aptitude, and reliability. Student competitors must also be in good academic standing (a cumulative GPA of 2.5 is required for travel eligibility).

Intercollegiate Tournament Competition

Limited Preparation Debate is a a fun way to develop oral communication and critical thinking skills. BHSU participates in what is sometimes called "Parliamentary" debate which involves writing a case in support of a resolution in a limited amount of time (between 15-30 minutes). Competitors have the chance to debate a wide range of topics. We do not require that our debaters have previous experience. Individual Events include prepared and limited preparation events. These events include, Persuasive Speaking, Informative Speaking, Speech to Entertain, Communication Analysis, Prose, Poetry, Impromptu Speaking, Extemporaneous Speaking, Dramatic Duo, Dramatic Interpretation, and Program Oral Interpretation.

Contact If you are interested in the program and/or have any questions, feel free to contact the forensics director:

Dr. Ryan Clark Box 9033 Black Hills State University 1200 University Avenue Spearfish, SD 57799-9056. Email:Ryan.Clark@bhsu.edu Phone: 605.642.6283

History

September 21, 1904 – Formation of the Ciceronians one of the oldest (if not the oldest) historical reference to academic debate at this campus (go to the second page in the link to find the story).
May 9, 1955 – Pi Kappa Delta fraternity installed on campus.