From July 2nd to July 7th, 2024, Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, transformed into a hub of intellectual rigor and cultural exchange as it hosted the 20th annual Midwest Great Debate (MWGD) under the National Hispanic Institute (NHI). During the six-day event students will participate in debates and speeches intended to improve their speaking skills and word management while working together to win prizes. Luis Jauregui, the Educational Director for the MWGD, described the event as “magical,” highlighting the transformative experiences shared by participants and organizers alike. Jauregui’s journey with the MWGD began in 2012, and his experience has been profoundly impactful. From a skeptical participant to an enthusiastic leader, he has seen firsthand the transformative power of the debates. The friendships and connections made through NHI have shaped his life, instilling a deep sense of community and purpose.
This year, 87 students from a multitude of regions, including Illinois, Iowa, Mexico, and Oklahoma, converged at Augustana College, bringing with them a wealth of perspectives that enriched the debate. Jauregui stated, “We hope this trend continues and that we will meet many more participants from different parts of the world. Their diverse perspectives will undoubtedly enrich our conversations at the Midwest Great Debate.”
Jauregui noted the initial shyness of the participants and how they blossomed as the debate progressed. “We could tell this group of participants was shy from the beginning. That said, we could also recognize how smart they were on the first day. Once they were comfortable, it was amazing to see the types of conversations and confidence they demonstrated throughout the rest of the week and during the final round on stage.” A particular incident stands out to Jauregui. “One of my favorite things to see was the willingness to overcome adversity throughout the competition. One of our participants started the competition in Cross Examination, a partner category. Unfortunately, his partner had to go home early, so he could not continue in his category. Despite that, he never let that break his spirit. In the end, he was invited into our fourth category, Athenaeum, where he and his team ended up taking first place!”
The overarching theme for this year’s debates was social narratives, inviting participants to reflect on and share their lived experiences. One especially impactful topic came from the Oratory category, where students presented speeches on individuals or events in history that have significantly influenced the Latino community. This exercise not only honed their public speaking skills but also deepened their understanding of their cultural heritage and the lasting impacts of historical Latino figures.
The diversity of the participants played a crucial role in the language challenges posed during the debates. Mexican participants debated in English, while U.S. participants tackled Spanish, pushing them out of their comfort zones and enhancing their language proficiency. Despite the struggles, the camaraderie and mutual support among the participants was evident as they navigated linguistic hurdles together.
The sense of community and safety fostered at the MWGD was a recurring highlight in the students’ feedback. “My favorite sentiment throughout the week was hearing participants share that they felt safe and like a family at the Midwest Great Debate,” Jauregui expressed. One student, who described himself as shy back home, found a place where he could express himself openly and confidently.
Events like the MWGD serve as a bridge to higher education for many participants. By experiencing college life firsthand—living in dorms, dining in the cafeteria, and attending workshops—students begin to visualize themselves as future college students. Jauregui shared his personal experience of how the MWGD helped him find his dream college at Augustana College, a sentiment he hopes will resonate with this year’s participants as well.
Augustana College has been the home of the MWGD for two decades, providing a familiar and supportive backdrop for the event. The newly renovated Wallenberg Hall, which was unavailable last year while under construction, added to the emotional resonance and excitement for returning staff and participants, reinforcing the deep connections many have with the campus.
Photo by Wezz De La Rosa / Hola America
NHI’s College Register institutions play a significant role in supporting the MWGD. According to the NHI website, “the College Register is a membership organization that actively recruits college-eligible high school students who are enrolled in the National Hispanic Institute.” Representatives like Liz Nino from Augustana College help recruit and welcome participants, creating a sense of belonging and continuity. As the MWGD looks to the future, Jauregui expressed confidence in the next generation of leaders who will take on more responsibilities. With the largest group of participants since 2020, there is optimism for continued growth and success. Planned changes for next year include adapting to new leadership roles and setting fresh goals to enhance the program.
NHI’s programs go beyond teaching debate skills; they instill a community-based mindset in young leaders. Many alumni have gone on to successful careers in various fields, continuing to set examples for future participants. By fostering leadership and encouraging participants to push their limits, NHI helps shape future leaders who are committed to making a positive impact on their communities. NHI boasts impressive outcomes like 98% college attendance rate and most graduate within 4-5 years.
Jauregui confirms this impact, “By encouraging participants to develop a community-based mindset at such a young age, we can continue to develop those around us, even if they did not participate in an NHI program. NHI is not just another summer program that teaches you about speech and debate. NHI is a summer leadership program that teaches you about life, how to carry yourself and value the lessons your family has taught you, and helps you make connections that will last a lifetime. The lessons I learned with NHI continue to influence my work and will do so for the rest of my life.”
Students interested in the MWGD and other NHI programs can apply through the NHI website at www.nationalhispanicinstitute.org. The organization continually seeks volunteers for recruitment and staff roles, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community. If you’re interested in volunteering, you can find opportunities on their website.
The Midwest Great Debate at Augustana College remains a beacon of learning, growth, and cultural exchange, inspiring young minds to envision a brighter future and the role they can play in shaping it. They’re already planning for 2025 so visit their website to learn more!
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