The 60th annual National Debate Tournament, hosted at Northwestern, ended Monday night after several days of competition on and around campus. The 151-year-old Northwestern Debate Society also held a reunion this weekend for former members.

Recent NU champion debaters faced off against each other and argued about U.S. foreign policy in China.

This year’s version of the nation’s oldest debate competition began Thursday, March 23. NU debate coach Scott Deatherage introduced participants and provided background about the art of debate to open the tournament last Wednesday. Deatherage, the 1990-1999 National Debate Tournament Coach of the Decade, coached NU to victories in 2002, 2003 and 2005.

“It all went very smoothly,” Deatherage said.

The Northwestern Debate Society was established in 1855 and is considered among the most decorated teams in the country. It has won 12 national championships, which is more than any other institution in its conference. Deatherage said NU’s successful history in debate is due to the dedication of its students.

“We have a long history and tradition that our students are committed to working hard,” he said. “Our attention to detail is strong.”

– Lauren Levy