Mixon Lyceum Speech and Debate Team
The Mixon Lyceum Speech and Debate Team boasts a proud tradition of cutting-edge performances, debate, and professional development within the world of intercollegiate competitive Forensics.
We are a rare program in that we successfully compete in both Individual Events and multiple forms of Debate. On the Debate end, we had competitors participate in both International Public Debate (IPDA) and National Parliamentary Debate (NPDA). Our students have also garnered regional and national attention with competitive performances and speeches in all eleven American Forensics Association Individual Events. These events include the oral interpretation of literature, memorized public address, and limited preparation speeches. We compete in the 6th District of the American Forensics Association which includes some of our favorite rival schools such as the University of Alabama, Ole Miss, and the University of Florida.
Our team also hosts on-campus events including showcases, public debate performances/viewings, and even an on-campus Speech and Debate Tournament, the Mardi Gras Classic Tournament.
Founded by Dr. Harold Mixon, who was recruited by the legendary Waldo Braden to teach classical rhetoric in the 1960's. A master of Greek and Latin, Dr. Mixon had a degree in Theology as well as a PhD in Communication. During the 1970's he secured outside funding for the debate team and laid the foundation of its success. For many years he recruited excellent debaters from his argumentation class and under his direction, teams traveled all over the nation and competed against Air Force, Georgetown, Harvard and other national debate powers. Now in retirement, Mixon still follows the fortunes of his beloved debate squad.
Eligibility
The LSU Speech and Debate Team is open to all undergraduates regardless of prior experience or major. Students must be in good academic standing and making satisfactory progress towards the completion of their degree. Though previous experience is certainly helpful, it is not necessary. As long as you have the willingness to learn, we will gladly teach you skills and techniques. Team members must attend weekly meetings. Members are encouraged to enroll in CMST 2200-02 to receive course credit for participating on the team.
Contact our Director of Forensics Jonathan Bridenbaker at jbridenbaker@lsu.edu for further information on joining our program!
LSU National Honorary Forensic Society
DSR-TKA is the LSU chapter of Delta Sigma Rho-Tau Kappa Alpha National Honorary Forensic Society. The organization works closely with the LSU Speech and Debate program and hosts the annual Mardi Gras Classic Collegiate tournament.