Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas has announced the winners of the first Sunshine State Debate, an event held in honor of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. The debate brought together nearly 100 students from Florida College System institutions to discuss themes related to the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“I was honored to announce the winners of the inaugural Sunshine State Debate. Throughout the competition, students’ mastery of civic discourse, thoughtful persuasion and a deep understanding of the constitutional ideals that shaped our nation were on display,” said Commissioner Kamoutsas. “Under Governor DeSantis’ steadfast leadership, civics has become an essential component of every student’s education, and the Sunshine State Debate demonstrated Florida’s commitment to the values that formed our constitutional republic.”
Lillian Clay from North Florida College won first place, while Justice Robinson from Hillsborough College took second place. Winners received scholarships provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and the Florida Council of Resource Development. The Ronald Reagan Foundation and Institute will also sponsor an all-expense paid trip for Clay to serve as a judge at the National Debate Championship in California.
The competition used a format inspired by presidential debates hosted by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, focusing on civility, personality, and storytelling. The foundation contributed logistical support, virtual training for participants and coaches, and an in-person orientation.
Support for this year’s event came from several organizations including the Florida College System Foundation, Florida Student Success Center, Association of Florida Colleges, Fifth Third Bank, Lawson Huck Gonzalez PLLC, Tallahassee State College, and others.
The Florida Department of Education, headquartered in Tallahassee at 325 West Gaines Street, oversees public education across Florida from early childhood through higher learning. It works with parents, educators and communities to improve student achievement for diverse groups by providing academic resources and professional training. The department administers programs ranging from K-12 schools to higher education initiatives focused on reading proficiency and career development.
