Shepherd University Selected to Host Ronald Reagan Debate Series

ISSUED: 28 August 2026
MEDIA CONTACT: Hans Fogle

SHEPHERDSTOWN, WV - Shepherd University has been selected as a host location for the 2027 Ronald Reagan Debate Series, bringing a national civic engagement opportunity to the University and West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle.

The regional invitational will take place at Shepherd on April 10, 2027. Open to students in grades 9-12, the series encourages participants to explore political ideas and develop communication skills through civil debate.

Students competing in the 2027 series will debate whether responsibility for disaster preparedness should rest with state and local governments or the federal government. They will be judged on their ability to communicate clearly, listen, and present logical arguments.

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute hosts the annual series that emulates the style of presidential debates. Students compete for their share of $50,000 in scholarships.

For more Shepherd University events, visit https://www.shepherd.edu/calendar.

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