Speech and Debate Team Heads to Harvard

On Friday, February 16th, the Speech & Debate academic team set off for Boston, Massachusetts, to compete at the Harvard National High School Invitational Forensics Tournament. Over 4,000 high school students from across the nation gathered for this prestigious event, which featured over 10 categories of speech and debate styles catering to various personalities.

Throughout the weekend, the girls collaborated, explored Boston’s landmarks, and made connections with peers from around the country. The journey commenced with a tour of Harvard’s campus, arranged through Harvard’s Catholic Center, providing insight into college life. Guided by an undergraduate student, John Phillips, the team learned firsthand how to balance academics, family, faith, and extracurricular activities.

John Phillips, a Harvard undergraduate and member of the Harvard Catholic Center, leads a tour around campus discussing the center’s role in balancing faith and academics, alongside students Nailah Bouchereau, Alyssa Hoyos, Daniela Roig, Alani Avila, and Eva Pozo, guided by Mr. Avila and Mrs. Spence. (Alani Avila)

“My favorite part was exploring Harvard. Our guide showcased the opportunities available and emphasized the importance of maintaining a balanced lifestyle. It was inspiring to witness the Harvard community,” sophomore Alyssa Hoyos said.

On Saturday, the competition began throughout the Harvard campus, offering students the chance to showcase their skills. After intense debate rounds, the team gathered for celebratory dinners, appreciating each other’s accomplishments and new experiences.

“I loved competing at Harvard and meeting students from diverse backgrounds. Exploring bookstores and immersing ourselves in Boston’s culture made the trip unforgettable,” sophomore Reese Spence said.

On Sunday, following the final debate round, the team attended Sunday mass at St. Paul’s Parish, where they engaged with Father Salzmann. After mass, he provided the group a historical tour of the beautiful church and offered words of encouragement, reinforcing that even at Harvard, students still can prioritize worship.

Immersed in History: Mr. Hart, Eva Pozo, Claudia Quintero, Liana Renfrow, Alyssa Hoyos, and Nailah Bouchereau, embark on a journey through the rich architectural and community heritage of St. Paul Parish in Boston during a tour led by Father Salzmann. (Alani Avila)

“I really enjoyed seeing the catholic community at Harvard come together. Not only was it memorable to see the church filled with young adults attending mass independently, but celebrating mass together was truly the highlight of it all,” freshman Claudia Quintero said.

On Monday, President’s Day commenced with a visit to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, followed by a stroll along the Freedom Trail, local cuisine at the Boston Market (“clam chowda”) and visiting numerous historical sites. Lucky for the team, Mr. Hart, moderator of the Speech & Debate program and history teacher, was well versed in the historical landmarks and added context to the beautiful landmarks and architecture. The day concluded with ice skating, allowing the team to revel in Boston’s wintry charm.

“Experiencing snowfall and ice skating with friends while exploring Boston was indescribable. I hope more students can partake in this enriching journey next year,” junior Liana Quintero said.

This marks the third year of the Speech and Debate program at Lourdes Academy, continuing to provide students with invaluable experiences and opportunities for growth.