Debate Hawks Compete in National Prison Debate League

The Monmouth University Debate Hawks recently participated in the National Prison Debate League (NPDL), competing against inmates from York Corrections, a maximum-security state penitentiary for women in Connecticut.

Led by debate captain Aiden Fornicola, the team included Sophie Schaub, Giana Mirto, Paige Campbell, Veronica Belloso, Audrey Copeland, Summer Billich, Kym Davis, Michael Judge, and Viktoria Stojceski. The central topic of the debate examined whether the United States should adopt a restorative model of justice.

"Debating with the NPDL was a rare and unforgettable experience. We learned more of the justice system's shortcomings in that 45-minute window than we did in weeks of research leading up to the debate," Fornicola said.

The discussion also explored related topics, including the retributive model of justice, which focuses on punishing offenders, and restorative justice, which encouraged dialogue between victims and offenders to promote healing of those impacted by crime.

NPDL promotes human potential and social diplomacy by creating safe educational spaces where meaningful exchanges of ideas can increase knowledge, understanding, and community.

In addition to the work with the NPDL, the Debate Hawks competed in tournaments at the University of Houston, University of Rochester, and Suffolk Law School. The team also hosted the Jersey Shore Invitation and participated in the American Debate Association Championship at Emory University.

"I feel honored that NPDL asked Monmouth to compete because we believe in their mission and because the best debate programs like Harvard are typically invited into the League. Our students inspired me and the overall experience made me feel more human," Professor in the Department of Political Science and Sociology and advisor to the Debate Hawks, Joe Patten, Ph.D., said.

Patten also extended a special thank you to the 35 Monmouth students who participated in at least one debate tournament this year.

Students interested in joining the debate team are encouraged to contact Patten at [email protected].