NAU Speech and Debate Team Observes Collegiate Tournament at the University of Houston
Written By Rev. Justin C. Jackson
This past Saturday, October 11, the North American University Speech and Debate Team took a major step in their journey toward competition excellence. Led by Head Coach James Keller and Assistant Coach Gul Musavi, the team was invited to observe a collegiate debate tournament hosted by the University of Houston. This event served as both a classroom and a proving ground for the young Stallion debaters, who are still in the developmental phase of their program — what Coach Keller affectionately calls "the cutting room floor."
At the tournament, the team witnessed the Cross Examination Debate Association (CEDA) style firsthand, a format known for its rigor, structure, and strategic thinking. They observed rounds between powerhouse programs such as West Point, Long Beach, Baylor, and the University of Houston, analyzing debate flow, rebuttal timing, and the art of controlled persuasion.
In attendance were Judith Arguelles, Nurzhamal Arzibekova, Dzhessika Esenbekova, and Fabio Nhampossa, each of whom took notes and reflected on how NAU can establish a competitive identity of its own. For a new program, experiences like this are invaluable. They allow our students not just to study debate, but to see debate — to feel the rhythm, the respect, and the rigor that define the sport of intellectual combat.
While NAU proudly competes in the NAIA, it's worth noting that some of the nation's most celebrated collegiate debate programs have roots right here in Texas and within the NAIA and HBCU communities — institutions such as Wiley College, Jarvis Christian University, and Huston-Tillotson University have all produced exceptional debaters and inspired generations through the power of words. On the NCAA side, schools like Texas Southern University, Prairie View A&M, University of Houston, and Texas Christian University continue to raise the bar for academic discourse and competition.
In Texas alone, the debate scene is fiercely competitive — a dynamic proving ground where intellect meets preparation and composure under pressure. For our Stallions, these early exposures to the craft are not just field trips — they are strategic investments in the art of critical thinking, communication, and leadership.
And as we reflect on the spirit of debate, one can't help but draw a larger connection: if more people in today's public and political arenas followed the discipline, structure, and respect displayed in collegiate debate, our national discourse might rediscover its civility and depth. College debate, at its best, isn't about shouting to be heard — it's about listening to understand, reasoning to persuade, and respecting the opponent as much as the argument itself.
Beyond his leadership at North American University, Coach James Keller brings a wealth of experience and faith-driven dedication to his role. A member of Dominion Church International, he was ordained as a Deacon in 2023 under the leadership of Pastor Steven Staten at The Fellowship of Tomball. As a former member of the world-renowned Texas Southern University Debate Team, Keller developed a lifelong passion for communication and education. Over the past 20 years, he has taught Speech Communication at several colleges and universities throughout the Houston area. His commitment to both education and media excellence is further reflected in his 25-year career as a News Editor at KRIV FOX 26, all while now serving in a full-time faculty appointment at North American University.
North American University's Speech and Debate Team is laying its foundation — brick by brick, round by round — and this trip marks an important milestone on that path.
Get ready, Stallions — the floor is yours.
