With over 100 years of national championship appearances and a consistent presence among the top-ranked teams in the country, the Sterling College Forensics and Debate team continues to build on a legacy of excellence. Under the leadership of Associate Professor of Communication Ken Troyer, the team blends tradition, travel, and top-tier talent.

Sterling College is one of only five colleges in the nation to have competed in the national forensics championships for more than a century. During his 19 years as coach, Troyer has guided the team to 18 top-25 national finishes, coached two national champions and a top national speaker, and helped 59 students become national medalists.

“My greatest accomplishment isn’t the awards or trophies,” said Troyer. “It’s the opportunity to work with students who go on to change the world—and knowing I played a small part in that journey.”

Senior Miquala Purscell, Hoisington, Kan., and freshman Brennan Blake, Cambridge, Minn., are two current standouts on the team.

“Forensics has taught me to overcome anxiety and embrace challenges,” said Purscell, who has traveled to nine states with the team and will attend Creighton Law School in the fall. “It’s helped me grow and given me lifelong friends.”

Blake, who began his forensics journey in the fifth grade, emphasized the real-world value of the skills he’s developed. “Forensics gives me a voice,” he said. “It’s made me a better speaker in both competition and daily life.”

Troyer, who was inducted into the Kansas Speech Communication Association Collegiate Hall of Fame, previously coached state championship teams at the high school level and brought that same passion to Sterling College. “Forensics equips students to speak out against injustice and engage the world with courage and clarity,” he said. “That’s what matters most.”

To learn more about Sterling College’s Forensics/Debate team visit www.sterling.edu/academics/debate-and-forensics.

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.