He will also be responsible for recruiting debaters to the program and offering camps, youth programming and public forum-style debates to engage the community.

Wright said he is excited about IC’s growing debate program and hopes to build on the momentum of the past two years to continue re-establishing Illinois College as a national leader in debate. He plans to expand competition offerings to include more events that will fit the needs of current students and attract additional students to the Hilltop.

“It’s really about giving students the opportunity to excel in the area they are interested in. The main skill sets developed in debate and speech are critical thinking, listening and research, but networking is also an important aspect. Students will be able to practice in many settings and meet people from all over the country,” said Wright. Participating in debate at the collegiate level has been demonstrated as excellent preparation for a number of fields, including law and politics.

Wright said that the IC debate students he has met seem eager for the challenge and prepared for a successful season. Wright’s most recent position prior to joining IC was as assistant professor of communication at the University of Indianapolis. He has a doctorate in intercultural communication and rhetoric from Bowling Green State University, a Master of Arts from Eastern Michigan University and a Bachelor of Arts from Western Kentucky University. He also has experience as an accomplished forensics competitor and coach at universities throughout the country and has presented his research through academic lectures and presentations nationwide.

Illinois College recently welcomed new faculty members Dr. Pratheesh Jakkala, Dr. Jocelyn Lanorio and Dr. Dane Wendell. Jakkala, assistant professor of physics, received his Master of Science degree in physics from the University of Mysore, India, his Master of Arts degree in physics from Kent State University, and his Ph.D. in Physics from Ohio University.

Lanorio, assistant professor of chemistry, received her Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from University of the Philippines, a Master of Science degree in chemistry from Michigan State University, and a Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Wendell, assistant professor of political science received his B.A. in political science from Rhodes College and his Master of Science and Ph.D. in political science from Loyola University.