TAMIU Forensic Forum Member Wins National Title

For now, it’s a small group comprised of only seven students but the Texas A&M International University Forensics Forum debate team packs a punch that’s second to none.

In a round of wins that tops a previous set of awards received at another competition in March, Forum member Amanda Rodríguez, a junior political science major, registered a historic, national title for the Forum as she won the 1st Place among 127 college student debaters nationwide who participated at the International Public Debate Association (IPDA) National Tournament held in Murfreesboro, Tennessee April 11-13.

Rodríguez won her title based on a timed, 25-minute research, case preparation and debate she did on a given topic entitled, “Kerry Botched His Trip to Israel.”

Other TAMIU Forensic Forum members also received awards at the Tournament including Alberto Soliz, a junior nursing major, who placed at the Top 16 category as he debated on the topic, “Equality is Just a Myth;” and Leslie Cortez, senior political science major, who placed at the Top 32 category as she debated on how “Incivility is Out of Control in America.”

Last month, the Forum received several awards at the 2014 Gulf Coast Tournament, held in Texas City and hosted by Lee College and College of the Mainland.

Other universities represented at the IPDA National Tournament included Lee College, Louisiana State University in Shreveport, Middle Tennessee State University, East Texas Baptist University, Bossier Parish Community College and Boise State University.

Solíz, who spoke representing the group, said Forum members are excited that they were able to represent TAMIU on a national level.

“We came from a University that other participants were not familiar with and now that we have won the national title this year, the competitors were able to recognize what TAMIU stood for and our true capabilities,” Solíz said.

The win also attests to the quality of education TAMIU students receive, Solíz said.

“This confirms that TAMIU is just as good as any other university and that the geographic location of a university does not relate to its success,” he said.

The TAMIU Forensics Forum meets once a week and is open to any TAMIU undergraduate student, and no prior experience is required.

Those interested in joining the team are encouraged to contact Rodríguez by e-mail at amandarodz@dusty.tamiu.edu

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu