James_Nov-Dec_2025_web - Flipbook - Page 33
hen looking
across our campuses, I see more
than classrooms,
labs and libraries. I see the
next generation of leaders— young
people who will shape Georgia, the
nation and the world. That’s why I
believe one of our most important
responsibilities in higher education
is not just to teach facts or confer
degrees, but to cultivate citizens
who know how to think critically,
speak clearly and, perhaps most
importantly, listen respectfully.
The University System of Georgia’s Regents Cup Debate Series embodies this commitment. What
began in 2024 with just six
schools has already grown
into a vibrant showcase of
civil discourse. This year,
13 institutions— including
the University of Georgia,
Dalton State College,
Georgia Tech, Valdosta
State University and
others— joined us at
Middle Georgia State
University in Macon
for several spirited
rounds of debate.
The competition
follows the International
Public Debate Association
format, which gives students
only 30 minutes to prepare
after receiving their topics.
After watching them in action, I’ve seen just how true
a test of their skills this is.
Students tackle the challenge headon, debating subjects that range
from higher education as a matter
of national security to restrictions
on biosciences.
These topics matter, but the way
students engage with them matters
even more. The Regents Cup is not
simply about winning an argument.
It’s about learning to frame ideas
persuasively, answer challenges
with respect and embrace viewpoints different from one’s own. It
rewards the discipline of listening as
much as the art of speaking.
That balance is crucial. We can’t
champion one student’s right to
speak while denying the same right
to another. Protecting free expression means protecting it for every
viewpoint, not just those we agree
with. At the same time, free speech
carries with it the responsibility to
hear others with an open mind. On
our campuses, we must be teaching
students to “disagree agreeably.”
Unfortunately, we’ve seen in
recent months what happens when
that balance breaks down. The
assassination of Charlie Kirk at
Utah Valley University is one
reminder of how easily dialogue
can be drowned out by violence
and division.
That is why the Regents
Cup and other initiatives are so
vital. They show students that
debate, when done well, is not
destructive but constructive.
It sharpens intellects, reveals
the rigor of opposing arguments and ultimately strengthens communities rather than
fracturing them.
Our commitment to this
goes beyond one competition. The Board of Regents
has strongly supported the
creation of a school of civic
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