EFSC Student Wins First Place at 2025 Grand Debate

Eastern Florida State College (EFSC) proudly announces that student Kostin Lewis captured first place at the 2025 Grand Debate, held November 6 at St. Petersburg College’s Seminole Campus.

The event featured 10 students from five Florida colleges, including EFSC representatives Kostin Lewis and Marina Reyes. Participating schools were EFSC, St. Petersburg College, Hillsborough College, Palm Beach State College, and Daytona State College.

Team EFSC was guided by faculty and staff members Josh Humphries, Christie McBride, Monica Hixson, and Dr. Erin Baird, who played key roles in EFSC’s participation and served as directors for the preliminary round hosted at EFSC earlier this fall.

Sponsored by the Institute for Strategic Policy Solutions (ISPS), the annual competition offers students an invaluable opportunity to sharpen public speaking and debate skills outside the classroom. Finalists advance through preliminary rounds at their respective colleges to debate timely issues, emphasizing the importance of clear and persuasive communication in today’s society.

This year’s topic: “Should the government regulate the content moderation policies of social media companies?”

Students were randomly assigned their position (affirmative or negative), opponent, and debate round. Lewis competed in the fifth round, arguing the affirmative position against last year’s Grand Debate champion — and emerged victorious.

“We are extremely proud of the two Titans who represented EFSC at the Grand Debate, and especially Kostin for earning first place,” said EFSC President Dr. Jim Richey. “The ability to think critically and communicate respectfully and persuasively is essential for leadership and success in every field. Our students exemplify these qualities and inspire others to do the same.”

For more information about Eastern Florida State College, visit easternflorida.edu.

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