Dr. McGarrity was invited to participate in the recent “Schools for Democracy” workshop, which brought together educators, museum directors, civic leaders, and journalists to design civic learning activities for Washington State high school students. Partners included representatives from Charles Wright Academy, Tacoma Public Schools, MOHAI, HistoryLink, the Seattle Times, TVW, Seattle Aquarium, and other nonprofit and government agencies. The workshop focused on developing curricular materials for use in Washington State civics classrooms, in partnership with HistoryLink.
When asked what skills high school students should practice in civics classes, Dr. McGarrity highlighted two key things:
- Good rhetorical analysis and production. A skilled speaker must analyze the argumentative terrain accurately and strategically, identifying key issues in a debate and addressing them systematically. This analysis requires respect for both one’s opponent (who holds a contrary position for good reasons) and one’s audience (who can rationally respond). A strong speaker can then articulate claims clearly, support them effectively, and deliver arguments in a way that is easy for audiences to follow.
- Switch-side debating. In switch-side debate, a student must argue both sides of a resolution (e.g., arguing for a policy and then against it). This method dramatically increases students’ knowledge of an issue by forcing them to research and craft multiple cases. It also fosters intellectual humility—the recognition that there are gaps in one’s knowledge or beliefs.
These same practices are central to the work of the Center for Speech & Debate, which offers speech coaching, student training, and public-facing events throughout the academic year. The Center is dedicated to empowering students to communicate effectively in a diverse—and often polarized—society. It promotes respectful argumentation and a culture of civil discourse through coaching, workshops, and public events.
Free speech coaching. Founded in 2006, the Center’s coaching program is its oldest offering. What began with just three student consultants has grown into a high-demand service used by hundreds of Huskies each quarter. Students visit the Center for help with class presentations, job interviews, research talks, and more. The Center recently partnered with UW’s First Year Programs to provide coaching to all First Year Interest Group (FIG) leaders.
Communication consultant development. Center consultants don’t just coach—they grow as communicators themselves. New consultants take a class on speech coaching, then lead 30-minute appointments across a wide range of speaking situations. Some also lead workshops for UW classes or regional organizations. To date, hundreds of students have served as consultants, sharpening their own speaking and teaching skills. Several alumni have gone on to become professional speechwriters and communication specialists. Three former consultants shared how their experiences as consultants shaped their careers as communications professionals.
Public debates. The Center also hosts live and online debates that engage students and the public on pressing regional issues. Unlike fast-paced media formats, these are structured, evidence-based debates designed to model reasoned discourse. For example, ahead of the 2024 election, the Center hosted a one-hour debate on the question, “Should Washington voters support I-2124?” Arguing for the initiative was State Senator Mark Mullet (D), and arguing against it was Libby Watson, Campaign Manager for “No on I-2124.” All too often, our culture frames debate as a hostile clash of beliefs. It certainly can be, but at root, debate is a method for testing and strengthening arguments. CSD debates emphasize clarity and substance over spectacle. Students often report that debating specific resolutions helps them understand issues more deeply than discussing broad ideological categories.
Jody Deering Nyquist speech contest. For decades, the contest has recognized the top UW speakers in our introductory public speaking course. By showcasing some of the best speech and argumentation at UW, the contest honors Dr. Nyquist’s commitment to education and civic engagement. Annually, the top speeches in UW’s public speaking courses are nominated for the contest. The finalists are judged by a panel of UW speech alumni.
Through coaching, debate, and civic engagement, the Center for Speech & Debate continues to prepare students to speak with clarity and conviction—both on campus and far beyond. Alumni interested in supporting or attending Center events can visit our website or reach out directly to learn more.
