About the WPDU
The William Pitt Debating Union (WPDU) is a co-curricular program that serves as a hub for a wide range of debating activities, including intercollegiate policy debate, public debate, and debate outreach. One of the oldest organizations of its kind in the nation, the union grew originally out of the University of Pittsburgh's Division of Public Speaking in 1912.
Read more about the WPDU.
Brains of Steel
Pittsburgh debaters have achieved a remarkable track record of academic success, winning prestigious awards such as Rhodes, Marshall, and Javitz scholarships, as well as Fulbright and Brackenridge fellowships. The team’s commitment to academic achievement is reflected in a strict travel policy that requires debaters to juggle team research commitments while excelling in coursework.
Join the Team
Contact the WPDU's
Program Administrator to arrange a time when you can speak to one of our coaches and drop by for a visit. We'd be delighted to see you!
News & Events
The William Pitt Debating Union will host a public debate addressing the future of transportation in Pittsburgh on Monday, April 14 from 6-7:30 p.m.
in the Frick Fine Arts auditorium.
The William Pitt Debating Union will host a public debate addressing guidelines for socially responsible investing in higher education, February 21, 2008 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in Alumni Hall room 343.
The WPDU's team of super sophomores, Stephanie Luczajko and Jennifer Sweeney, reached the sweet sixteen elimination round at the debate tournament hosted by the U.S. Naval Academy last weekend in Annapolis, Maryland.
The WPDU pulled off a rare feat October 13-15, 2007, qualifying three varsity teams for the elimination rounds at the Jay Weinberg Autumn Debate Tournament hosted by the University of Richmond in Richmond, Virginia.
Browse the news archive.
