Share Our Debate & Leadership Summer Program!

Founding Forward and the Bill of Rights Institute are pleased to announce the Debate & Leadership Institute! This summer, students will have the unique opportunity to participate in a 5-day debate program in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, July 21-25, 2025. 

The Debate & Leadership Institute is open to high school students entering 10th, 11th, and 12th grade in the 2025-2026 school year. Participants will spend the week strengthening their debate skills and deepening their civic knowledge through:

• Expert-led discussions 
• Real-world debate training 
• A competitive debate tournament 
• A tour of historic Philadelphia, including the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall

Students should apply to the Debate & Leadership Institute before the application deadline, May 2, 2025. A refundable $150 fee is required at the time of registration.

Previous debate experience is not required to apply. Students who are  driven and care about the world around them, students who want to become or already are leaders in their communities, and students who want to become strong communicators are encouraged to apply.

Application Requirements | How to Apply

	First, students must enter their contact information including their name, birth date, and email, and the contact information of their parent or guardian.
	Second, students must provide the name and address of their school, their grade level, and any clubs, organizations, sports, or hobbies they're a part of.
	Lastly, students must write two short essay questions. Each short essay question should be submitted in PDF format, in 300 words or less. The short essay question prompts should answer the following:

• Why do you want to come to debate camp and what do you hope to get out of it?
• What is an issue in your community or the country that you care deeply about?
  Why?

Cost of Attendance & Scholarships

The cost to attend the Debate & Leadership Institute is $1,000 and covers lectures, room and board, all meals, site visits, and program materials. A refundable $150 registration fee is required at the time of registration. 

Scholarships are granted to accepted attendees for the full cost of attendance.