Four Star Debate

Whenever a problem exists in a community, a void is created for leadership. That void is always filled, whether with a leader of integrity or otherwise. Knowing this, we feel the responsibility to ensure that the leaders who fill the void are people of character and integrity who have been purposefully developed for the task.

Though today these young people can’t cast a ballot, tomorrow they will have to solve some incredible problems. It will be today’s children who will end the war on terror, pay off our national debt, develop a solution to social security, and create an environmentally sustainable industry. These problems will “resist elegant and easy solutions.” They will take an amazing effort of creativity, teamwork, willpower, and clear and open communication.

This summer, our nation’s best and brightest students will once again gather to voice their views, positions, and concerns about some of the most important public policy issues of our day. With debate as the vehicle, students will learn about the difficulties and complexities of leadership and come to appreciate the importance of communication in solving problems. These students and others like them will decide whether the 21st Century is one of optimism or regret.

Hosted by the General Tommy Franks Leadership Institute and Museum, the National Center for Policy Analysis, and the Academy of Leadership & Liberty, participants will be immersed in the issues permeating our nation’s leaders at the highest levels. Students will have a chance to share their vision for the future with their peers and the world by presenting their ideas in a nationally-televised, freestyle debate that will be moderated by a presidential debate moderator.

Through Four Star Debate, we seek to develop young leaders of character who are well-informed about our communities’ issues, who are able to communicate a vision for a better future, and who can work with people from all walks of life to change the world.

Click here for information on the 2011 program.

Click here to apply to the 2011 program.