2025 Gonzaga Debate and Speech Institute
Welcome to the home of the 2025 Gonzaga Debate and Speech Institute (GDI)! We are excited you stopped by, and whether you’re here to apply or to just learn more about what we’re about, we encourage you to explore the site and get a sense of our programs, curriculum, and faculty. For over 50 years students from across the United States, and from around the world, have attended the GDI to advance their understanding of the theory and practice of competitive debate. They are drawn by our award-winning faculty, track record of success, our focus on skills-based learning, and our beautiful location. The Gonzaga campus is located in the inland northwest, on the banks of the Spokane River in Spokane, Washington. Whether you are a novice and brand new to forensics, a rising sophomore, or an accomplished junior or senior, we invite you to explore the site and consider joining us for another outstanding summer program. Students who choose to stay on campus will live in historic Desmet Hall, one of the most historic buildings on campus. The majority of student meals will be served in the COG in the GU student center, The Hemmingson Center. Students will participate in labs, attend lectures, and debate primarily in classroom spaces located in Jepson Center and College Hall.
Our curriculum focuses on a more skills-based curriculum which provides students the opportunity for daily interaction with a cohort of their peers, as they learn from among the most experienced faculties in the world. We think students best learn by doing. To that end each student will get a LOT of practice, including judge feedback and numerous opportunities to learn around that experience. The institute concludes with the GDI Tournament where students will have the opportunity to compete against the field while being critiqued by some of the most preferred and experienced college and high school judges in the country.
Students seeking a challenging, rewarding, and competitive summer should consider joining us for what promises to be another outstanding GDI experience.
Our application is available here and we encourage you to apply early!
Programs and Dates
Visit our Programs Page for Descriptions
| Program | Date |
| Five Week Policy Program | June 22nd – July 26th |
| Three Week Policy Program | July 6th – 26th |
| Two Week Policy Program | July 13th – 26th |
| Two Week Lincoln Douglas Program | July 13th – 26th |
| Two Week Public Forum Program | July 13th – 26th |
| One Week Worlds Debate Program | July 20th – 26th |
| One Week Congress Program | July 20th – 26th |
| One Week Public Speaking Program | July 20th – 26th |