8 Teams Compete in Annual MacBean Bowl Debate Invitational

This year's MacBean Bowl winners have been crowned after several intense rounds of debate on Tuesday, May 26. Eight teams competed.

"This year's debate asked the students to consider whether state universities should be allowed to monitor students' social media," explained Upper School History Teacher and advisor Kris Aldridge, Hon.

Ben Michel '26 and Hank Goebeler '26 won the final debate over Connor Myers '27 and Karen Shi '27.

"These four debaters were particularly adept at understanding that the core issue involved the tension between freedom of speech and public safety," said Mrs. Aldridge.

In keeping with tradition, the MacBean Bowl is judged by EA alumni. This year's judges included Dean Avgerinos '13, Bo Aldridge '21, Yvvy Chen '21, Jon Shanahan '21, Evie Aldridge '23, Gray Collins '25, and Elizabeth Hershey '25.

"We are so grateful that so many alumni remain committed to the spirit of respectful disagreement!" remarked Mrs. Aldridge.

The annual invitational is hosted by the Junto Club.