The National Prison Debate League is honored to welcome the newest team to the NPDL family in Mansfield, Ohio! On October 24th, we launched NPDL training for a group of 12 men currently residing within Richland Correctional Institution (RiCI).

During introductions, it became abundantly clear that this group is special. Unsurprisingly, these gentlemen creatively reimagined their Toastmasters communication program to discover and hone their voices. My teammates and I took the same approach in Massachusetts back in 2006. Therefore, we can relate with and fully respect the high level of determination already on display by this squad.

NPDL cannot wait until this team lights up the big stage with their collectively vibrant humanity and incredible talent. These guys have been waiting years for an opportunity and we couldn’t be happier to build this particular bridge back to society. The efforts of RiCI Program Coordinator Jerrica Hairston to connect and coordinate everyone involved has also been next level. So we salute her for making a difference. Sometimes all that’s required is vision, communication, and drive.

Patrick Waldinger, current President of the American Debate Association and University of Miami Debate, is coaching this confident crew for the NPDL.  The debate world is not ready! Stay tuned…