The inaugural USG Regents Cup event was held in April 2024 on the campus of Middle Georgia State University. The idea for this event was generated by Chairman of the Board of Regents Harold Reynolds and Regent Erin Hames who wanted to create a space for students to cultivate their ability not only for advocacy but for civil discourse. They wanted to highlight how our students can communicate and articulate ideas from different perspectives in a persuasive, respectful way.

The 2024 series featured six participating institutions, with awards given to the top team and top four individual debaters. Due to the success of the inaugural event, The Regents Cup will continue to be a full-day event following the International Public Debate Association (IPDA) format, which encourages debaters to "think on their feet" and develop strong refutation skills. 

 

Chancellor Sonny Perdue presents a trophy to individual debater Ansley Warnock at the inaugural tournament in 2024

 

Past Winners and Judges

  • April 2024

    April 15, 2024

    Winning Team

    • Valdosta State University
      • Reagin Jones
      • Gabby Lorentz


    Winning Debater

    • Ansley Warnock, University of Georgia


    Distinguished Judges

    • Former Gov. Nathan Deal
    • USG Regent Erin Hames
    • State Sen. Freddie Powell Sims
    • Former USG Regent Robert F. Hatcher Sr.
    • MGA Community Liaison Charles Richardson
    • Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Foundation, Chief Operating Officer Jodie Snow
    • Mercer University School of Law, Dean Karen Sneddon

     

    The winning team from Valdosta State University with Chancellor Perdue and distinguished judges