Jackrabbits Forensics
Jackrabbits Forensics is one of the oldest co-curricular programs at South Dakota State, dating back to the late 1880s. We continue to build our legacy by speaking our passion. The 2023-24 season was our most successful in team history, placing 20th in Team Sweepstakes a the American Forensics Association National Speech Tournament, 7 semi-finalists and 2 finalists at the International Forensics Association Contest in Dublin, Ireland.
The Program
Jackrabbits Forensics is a comprehensive, co-curricular forensics program that competes in the 11 American Forensics Association events and parliamentary debates. Our team is one of the oldest student organizations on campus. We have a rich tradition of excellence in collegiate oral interpretation, speech and debate. Our program is rooted in education for speakers of all levels.
Any student enrolled at South Dakota State University is eligible to participate. Every year there is an audition process for interested students. Students will receive academic credit for their participation in the co-curricular activity.
Program Philosophy
The South Dakota State University Forensics team is rooted in the liberal arts tradition to both be an extended classroom for students and achieve competitive excellence. All members of the team represent the School of Communication and Journalism, the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences and South Dakota State University.
Goals
The Jackrabbits Forensics Team's primary goal is to develop and enhance oral communication skills through competitive and community performance or public address, limited preparation events, oral interpretation and debates. Together, the team will set competitive and growth goals. Additionally, each individual will set competitive and growth goals with the Director of Forensics.
For additional information, please get in touch with Andrea Carlile, Director of Forensics.
Donate to the Forensics Team through the Alumni Scholarship Fund
We are excited to announce our Jackrabbits Forensics Alumni Scholarship Fund! If you are interested in supporting our students on the Jackrabbits Forensics Team, please go to this site. Select Scholarships for the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, and in the notes section, write Jackrabbit Forensics Alumni Scholarship Fund.
