Multiple historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are in Birmingham for the first ever Penny Games Debate Competition at the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex (BJCC).
Event officials said the debate will create a national platform for some of country’s brightest HBCU students to engage in rigorous debate on issues in communities across the country.
The competition will feature a set of resolutions each day that will give students the opportunity to debate timely questions about economic development, philanthropy, and social change.
“The Penny Games gives HBCU students an opportunity to bring their voices, intellect and ideas to Birmingham while engaging with some of the most important questions facing our communities,” said CEO of The Penny Foundation Lyord Watson. “It’s a chance to recognize HBCU talent, encourage meaningful dialogue and create connections that can extend well beyond the debate stage.”
The debates began Thursday, Oct. 1 at the BJCC and will conclude Saturday, Oct. 3 at 16th Street Baptist Church.
Officials said the following HBCUs are participating in the event:
- Texas Southern University
- Tennessee State University
- Spelman College
- Hampton University
- Wiley University
- Livingstone College
- Fisk University
- Howard University
- Morehouse College
Attendance to the event is free, but officials said guests must register for a ticket to attend.
