I was asked to join the WDI board in the fall of 2009 - I was very excited as this is an organization I truly believe in. I have been involved in debate for a long time, and I think the WDI serves an important purpose in giving young women a network and a set of role models to encourage them to continue to participate in debate. As a professor I know that debate helps students excel in their courses and critically analyze material, but many women leave debate, particularly in college, because they feel isolated and want to pursue other avenues. The WDI helps women prepare for the transition from high school to college debate and gives them other students that can support them during that difficult transition.
This organization is one of the most innovative in the world of debate, and really works to address the root issues of sexism and elitism within the activity. In a male-dominated field, it gives young women chances to learn about and empower their own voices and also supports them in building a dynamic, educational community of women from across the country. I have specifically been impacted by the mentoring program and the chance to work with young women to empower their voices and to encourage them to meet their personal and academic goals, specifically in relation to their college applications.
The WDI was born out of a desire to create a strong community of women in competitive high school and college debate. I owe so much of my professional success to debate, and I believe that every girl out there who has something to say can benefit tremendously from participating in this amazing activity. We've been operating now for ten years, and watching the girls who came to the first camp ten years ago develop into strong, confident, and successfuly women is really awe inspiring. It makes me realize that, despite the inevitable ups and downs that accompany an all volunteer, non-profit, we've accomplished amazing things and I'm pround to be a part of this organization.
Overall I the WDI has made great achievements over the last few years. I agree with the director that it is time for the WDI to change leadership and location but with any large change I am fearful the organization will lose some of what made it so great. Yet I am eager to see the board members become more deviated to their individual tasks and the loose the last minute push for funding and student enrollment.
Volunteering with WDI is, beyond any question, the most productive thing I've done with my life. Every year, dozens of students come from all across the country to meet peers, be trained in the art of debate, and create learning experiences that truly last a lifetime. We've been putting on the camp for 10 years now, and numerous students have returned as staff. It has grown into a support network that impacts hundreds of lives.