Testimonials
What Forensics Has Meant to Me: Jeff Shaw
It is no exaggeration to say that, without forensics, I would not have the life that I do. The critical thinking skills, research experience and development of public advocacy abilities all helped me immeasurably. Oregon Forensics has a proud tradition that provides vital service to young people. Please support it.
- Jeff Shaw 1998 English
What Forensics Has Meant to Me: Maria “Masha” Mironova
My first visit to the UO campus was during the high school Speech and Debate tournament and that was the time from which onward I considered attending the university. Since then, Debate has become central to my college experience. From traveling to tournaments, to the in-depth research and preparation required to succeed, I have become a better student and person because of my participation in Debate. I feel a measurable and real difference in my ability to communicate clearly and efficiently, as well as being more prepared to explore a wide range of professional opportunities after graduation. None of this would have been possible without the training and community of UO Forensics.
- Maria "Masha" Mironova CHC 2026 Political Science
What Forensics Has Meant to Me: Talon Kennedy
Participating in the forensics program during my undergraduate studies at the University of Oregon built on the skills I began developing during high school speech and debate. The support of UO Forensics extends beyond my experience in college, to my high school speech and debate experience. Growing up in a small town in Oregon, it was challenging to be competitive and grow speech and debate skills. The Robert D. Clark Invitational was a highlight of my year when participating in speech and debate in high school. The memories and experiences offered by UO Forensics influenced my interest in University of Oregon for undergraduate studies. Now I am back at University of Oregon for law school. This program is so impactful for students across the state, both prior to and throughout attendance at the University of Oregon.
- Talon Kennedy 2020 International Studies
Shaping My Career Beyond UO: Gabriel Scott
Forensics gave me skills for political advocacy, the practice of law, and also exposure to the life-long friendships and collaborations that make professional life actually livable.
~ Gabriel Scott Debated 92-94
Building My Academic and Intellectual Core: Gabriel Scott
Debate was easily the most valuable aspect of my education at UO - indeed without that there is no chance I would have attended. The members of the debate team, going to tournaments, the coaches and research were all formative. The forensics experience provided a sort of key that helped to unlock all of the other classes, and tied it all together in ways that brought learning back home to real life.
~ Gabriel Scott Debated 92-94
How Forensics Elevated the University of Oregon: Gregory Mowe
My debate partner Gary Roberts and I won the Air Force Academy National Debate Tournament in 1967. We also qualified for the NDT (National Debate Tournament) in 1967 and 1968, reaching the elimination rounds in 1968.
~ Gregory Mowe 1968 Math. 1969 Speech
Forensics and My Path to Leadership: Gregory Mowe
Forensics equipped me for public life as a board member and board chair of several Portland nonprofits.
~ Gregory Mowe 1968 Math. 1969 Speech
Shaping My Career Beyond UO: Gregory Mowe
Forensics was a launching pad for a 40 year litigation practice as a partner in a large Northwest firm.
~ Gregory Mowe 1968 Math. 1969 Speech
How Forensics Elevated the University of Oregon: Alan Mygatt-Tauber
I, along with my partner Heidi Ford, won the first National Parliamentary Tournament of Excellence, a national championship which is invite only and which Oregon has won many times since. We were recognized by the Provost and other academic leaders. We also put on several community events to highlight key issues of import to the campus and broader community.
~ Alan Mygatt-Tauber 2001 - Political Science
Forensics and My Path to Leadership: Alan Mygatt-Tauber
I was one of the captains of the team my senior year and my participation in debate prepared me to serve within student government both at Oregon and in both law school and grad school. The leadership skills I learned propelled me throughout my academic and non-academic careers to leadership positions.
~ Alan Mygatt-Tauber 2001 - Political Science
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