Assembly Resolution No. 424

BY: M. of A. Lupardo

CONGRATULATING the Binghamton University Debate
Team upon the occasion of capturing First Place at
the 79th National Debate Tournament

WHEREAS, Individual and team championships are vital for healthy
competition among our students; this Legislative Body commends rare
achievements and pays special recognition to those who pursue such
excellence and become examples for the youth of this great Empire State;
and

WHEREAS, Competition helps prepare students for the future by
instilling in them the importance of teamwork and developing a sense of
fair play; and

WHEREAS, This Legislative Body is justly proud to congratulate the
Binghamton University Debate Team upon the occasion of capturing First
Place at the 79th National Debate Tournament on Tuesday, April 8, 2025;
and

WHEREAS, The Binghamton University Debate Team consists of 30
members; four were specifically selected to qualify for this tournament;
Eli Turner-Louis and Jeremiah Cohn were the tournament finalists; and

WHEREAS, Despite winning tournaments in previous years, April 8,
2025, was a historic day for the Binghamton University Debate Team; for
the first time in its history, and the first time a New York university
had accomplished this feat, Binghamton University took home the trophy
for the National Debate Tournament (NDT); and

WHEREAS, Competing in the most prestigious national debate
championship in the United States, this honor was attained after a 3-2
decision against the University of Kansas; this win follows a 2024
victory at the Cross Examination Debate Association (CEDA) National
Tournament; and

WHEREAS, Eli Turner-Louis was satisfied with the knowledge that as a
senior, she ensured that the door behind her will not close for the next
person; and

WHEREAS, Jeremiah Cohn expressed his elation for the victory, saying
that he is very happy, especially on behalf of Binghamton University;
the members of the Debate Team defied the odds against them and
triumphed over the other teams; and

WHEREAS, The dedicated members of the Binghamton University Debate
Team worked arduously, competing at the same level as other teams which
had the advantage of more resources and coaching staff; they merit the
admiration of the citizens of the State of New York; now, therefore, be
it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
congratulate the Binghamton University Debate Team upon the occasion of

capturing First Place at the 79th National Debate Tournament; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That copies of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Debate Champions, Eli Turner-Louis and Jeremiah Cohn, and
Joe Shatz, Director of the Binghamton University Debate Team.