Author: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Monday, April 26, 2010

Henry Clay High debate team members Sarah Atkins, Neha Ray, Athie Livas and Helen Sauer were runners-up in this year's Bickel & Brewer/NYU International Public Policy Forum. (Photo: Tammy L. Lane)

There’s no arguing the dedication and skill of Henry Clay High School’s debate team. Four members – Sarah Atkins, Neha Ray, Athie Livas and Helen Sauer – have a shiny, international trophy to prove it.

The group was runner-up in this year’s Bickel & Brewer/NYU International Public Policy Forum, the only worldwide contest that gives high school students a chance to participate in written and oral debates on public policy issues.

“They are the most committed, intelligent debaters I’ve ever had,” said coach Axel Liimatta, who accompanied them to New York for the semifinal and final rounds. “They all have unique talents, and that’s why it works well.”

Whether researching the debate topic, writing the essay or arguing their points, the students pulled together as a cohesive team.

“We didn’t have a weak link,” said Sarah, the lone senior. “It was complete commitment.”

That meant many a late-night session during months of preparation and competition.

“I can function on a lot less sleep than I thought I needed,” Sarah said with a laugh. “It really is worth it!”

These four girls have reaped various benefits as members of a debate team.

Helen, who is leaning toward law school, said the experience has honed her research skills and ability to bear down and dissect a singular topic. Teammate Neha has built confidence in her public speaking, while Athie enjoys expressing her opinions and the intellectual freedom of the debate format.

“School teaches you how to learn, and debate teaches you how to think,” Athie said.

Sarah agreed, saying, “This has probably prepared me for life more than any class or extracurricular activity.”

The 2009-2010 International Public Policy Forum competition began in October when more than 200 teams tackled the topic “Resolved: The United Nations should substantially increase humanitarian assistance for persons living in poverty.” An essay review committee determined the Top 32 teams.

Those schools then advanced to a single-elimination tournament, exchanging a series of papers via e-mail as they argued on opposing sides. A panel of judges reviewed the papers and culled the teams to the Sweet 16 and the Elite Eight.

Supplementing their written scholarship with oral advocacy at the IPPF Finals Weekend in mid-April, Henry Clay defeated teams from Texas and New Zealand en route to the championship round.

“You can speak persuasively, and you don’t have to be intimidated if you’re confident in your work,” Helen said.

Experts in the fields of law, business, politics and academia judged the teams, and for the first time, the Internet audience was allowed to vote. The judges split 3-3 in the finals, but Team Singapore picked up 53 percent of the online support. The winner received $10,000 and the Bickel & Brewer Cup, a traveling trophy. Henry Clay’s group pocketed $3,500 for second place.

“We came so close, and we have a solid team for next year,” said Neha, pointing out that three of the four girls are juniors.

“We plan to win!” Athie added.