Who is Summit Debate?

Summit Debate was founded in 1995 by Jenny Cook, Executive Director. The name Summit Debate was influenced by a historic road, Summit Avenue, known for showcasing some of the grandest homes in the Twin Cities area. Summit Avenue was just a short walk from where Cook lived, and in her mind, the name Summit captured the image of “making it to the top”; thus the motto “Reach for the Summit”.

The first institute opened in the summer of 1997 with the National Debate Forum (NDF) in Lincoln-Douglas Debate. By 2003, we added what would become our signature event -- Public Forum Debate. We added interpretation events in 2004, followed by Original Oratory and Platform Speaking in 2007. Rebranding as the National Speech Forum (NSF) in 2019, these events have solidified themselves as a core part of one of the largest speech & debate institutes in the country.

With more than two decades of experience running summer institutes, we have become the one of the largest providers for summer speech and debate enrichment. Since 2020, our sessions have expanded to include an online learning option, allowing for greater access and flexibility for those who wish to join virtually.

Jenny Cook - Executive Director

with so many options out there, What sets us apart?

EXPERTISE THAT DRIVES EXCELLENCE

At Summit Debate, we believe that excellence in teaching comes from a continuous commitment to learning and innovation. Our faculty is a distinguished group of award-winning educators and coaches who are not only leaders in the speech and debate community but also in their respective educational fields. This unique blend of expertise ensures that our students receive the highest quality instruction available.

Each member of our team is a leader in both the speech and debate community and their broader educational community. Our faculty and leadership team hold various leadership positions, whether serving as tab staff, tournament equity leads, or members of the Public Forum and Lincoln-Douglas Wording Committees. This active involvement gives our faculty unparalleled insights into the latest trends and developments in speech and debate, which directly translate into better educational experiences.

Moreover, our educators bring their rich experience in academic settings to create an adaptive, student-centered curriculum. We understand that each student is at a different stage in their journey, so we design learning opportunities that meet them where they are and provide the right level of challenge to foster growth. At Summit Debate, our mission is to empower students to excel, in competition and beyond.

A TRAINING GROUND FOR STUDENTS

At Summit Debate, we believe that a strong foundation is the key to long-term success. We are dedicated to helping students build the essential skills they need to excel in speech and debate, both now and in the future. Our curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, effective communication, judge adaptation, and strategic argumentation—skills that not only lead to success in competition but also in academic and professional endeavors.

To broaden the experiences of our students, we provide a variety of opportunities. Through practice rounds and showcases, as well as targeted drills, our students engage in real-world scenarios that prepare them for the demands of competitive debate. All of the drills that we practice throughout camp are geared toward building our students’ toolbox so that they have a plethora of different strategies they can carry with them throughout the entire year, continually refining their abilities.

What sets Summit Debate apart is our commitment to delivering real-time, actionable feedback. Our faculty works closely with each student, offering personalized guidance that helps them identify strengths and areas for improvement. This immediate feedback loop ensures that students are not only aware of their progress but also equipped with the strategies they need to keep advancing. Each student will also leave camp with a personalized report, identifying areas of growth and making suggestions for further learning.

FOSTERING GROWTH THROUGH COMMUNITY

At Summit Debate, we know that success in speech and debate goes hand-in-hand with a supportive and inclusive community. That's why we place a strong emphasis on building a vibrant, collaborative environment where students can thrive both personally and competitively. Our camp is more than just a place to sharpen skills—it's a place where lasting friendships are forged, and where everyone can feel like they belong.

We believe that learning is most effective when students are enjoying themselves. That’s why we make it a priority to create an atmosphere that balances hard work with fun. Whether it’s through team-building activities, social events, or just the daily interactions that happen naturally, we ensure that every student has the opportunity to have a good time while they learn and grow. Stepping outside your comfort zone is essential for growth, and at Summit Debate, we provide a safe and supportive space for students to do just that. We encourage students to take risks, try new things, and challenge themselves in ways they might not have thought possible. Our faculty and staff are committed to creating an environment where every student feels safe to explore their potential without fear of judgment or failure.

Beyond the skills and strategies, Summit Debate is about fostering relationships that last long after the camp ends. The bonds formed here—between students, coaches, and peers—create a network of support that extends into the competitive season and beyond. We are proud to offer a community where everyone can feel supported, encouraged, and inspired to be their best selves.