The University of Alberta Debate Society (UADS), established in 1908, is the oldest university debating society in Western Canada, as well as the oldest club on the U of A campus. The UADS offers a unique opportunity to increase knowledge of current events, foster public speaking skills and enhance the ability to think on your feet. Distinguished alumni of the society include Joe Clark, Laurence Decore, Grant Notley, Ron Martland, and Joe Shocter.

Finally, what other club can you join that will improve your public speaking and essay writing skills, provide opportunities to travel around the world, teach you how to argue, and still manage to let you have a lot of fun at the same time?

What does the club do?

• Weekly meetings to practice debating and impromptu speaking, and learn different debate styles
• Tournaments across Canada and beyond - excellent opportunities to travel and meet people from other universities with similar interests
• Great volunteer opportunities including judging rounds and tabulating results at tournaments
• Commitment is flexible - devote as much or as little time as you have

How to contact us

Office: Students' Union Building 6-14
E-mail: debate@ualberta.ca
Mailing Address:
Box 147, Students' Union Building
University of Alberta
Edmonton AB T6G 2J7

Memberships

Memberships are available from the Treasurer throughout the year for the price of $20 for the full year, or $15 for one term only. Buying a membership entitles one to run or vote in club executive elections, as well as reduced fees at UADS-hosted tournaments. Also, please note that a membership is required for registration at external tournaments hosted at other schools.

Other information

• The UADS Constitution governs the UADS as a student group recognized by the U of A Students' Union.
• The Points System is how we keep track of members' participation and successes in UADS-sanctioned events. Points are used to decide whom to send to tournaments that have a cap on the number of teams that can represent the U of A.
• Complete Point Totals are also available in Microsoft Excel format.
• Be sure to check out our past tournament results and successes.

The UADS Executive Committee is comprised of seven elected society members who meet on a bi-weekly basis to manage the club's business, and fulfill their roles as outlined in the Constitution. Executive meetings are usually alternating Mondays in the club office (SUB 6-14), and all UADS members may attend.

Meet the current executive