Wichita State University will play host this spring to the National Championship Tournament of the Cross Examination Debate Association.

The tournament is the largest policy debate tournament in the country. About 200 college teams will compete, and more than 500 people are expected to attend.

The last time WSU hosted CEDA Nationals was in 1997. WSU also hosted the tournament in 1986.

This year’s event will focus on U.S. constructive engagement with Iran, Afghanistan, Syria, Lebanon and/or the Palestinian Authority.

Eight preliminary debates will be held Friday, March 21, and Saturday, March 22. Following will be single elimination debates Sunday, March 23, and Monday, March 24. The final round will be held at about 9 p.m. Monday, March 24.

Debates Friday-Sunday will be on the WSU campus. Elimination rounds on Monday will be at the Wichita Marriott.

Two awards ceremonies will recognize the accomplishments of students, coaches and alumni. The first is scheduled for Thursday, March 20. The second is set for Sunday, March 23.

Wichita and Kansas have a strong track record at the high school and collegiate ranks in training students to compete successfully in speech and debate at the highest levels.

WSU’s debate team was ranked No. 9 in the nation in December and continues to come up with impressive results.

Jeffrey Jarman, Elliott School of Communication assistant professor and director of speech and debate, leads WSU’s debate team.

Susan Huxman, director of the Elliott School, said she is pleased with WSU’s results and the opportunity to host such a prestigious event.

“It requires first that the host university be a serious contender on the national stage,” Huxman said. “WSU debate has been strong for many years, especially the past five. It's really amazing the amount of research, reasoning and presentation polish that go into preparation for national debate competitions. Debate teaches the building blocks of a liberal arts education and is consistent with the mission of WSU to groom articulate citizens for our times.”