Society for B.J.F. Holds Discussion on Humanities and U.S. Engagement in the Middle East
The Benedict Joseph Fenwick Debating Society, a renowned academic debating society at Holy Cross, has made a triumphant return to campus, hosting a series of engaging debates on current news issues. Established in 1846, the society has stood as a staple of campus life for more than 150 years before becoming defunct around 2003.
In the past few months, the society has been active, hosting debates on a variety of topics that reflect the pressing social issues, ethical dilemmas, political questions, and emerging global challenges of our time. The debates are structured in an interactive format, consisting of timed rounds with constructive speeches, rebuttals, and audience engagement, aiming to develop critical thinking, public speaking, and persuasive skills.
The society's last debate of the semester took place on April 29 in the Levis Browsing Room in Dinand Library, with guest judges Fr. Jim Hayes, S.J. and Professor Cynthia [last name not provided]. The debate focused on the question of whether the United States should withdraw from the Middle East. Jack Drobny '27, Elliott Stalls '28, and Ian Sykes '28 argued in favour of withdrawal, while Daniel Capobianco '25, Margaret Baughman '27, and Anthony Mann '26 argued against. The debate concluded with no clear winner, and Professor Joseph used the Holy Cross phrase "To be patient with ambiguity" to declare the result.
Prior to this, the society held a debate on April 7th, with the topics still to be determined. The first debate of the evening considered whether the humanities are elitist. The negative team won the debate, with Madelyn Lazzara '28, Micheal Schwerdt '27, and Nicholas Gobo '28 arguing in the affirmative, while Ella Murray '27, Liam Murphy '25, and John Zimmerman '26 argued in the negative.
The Benedict Joseph Fenwick Debating Society's debates are not limited to students. The society offers a platform for generations of students and community members to engage in discussions on the most pressing issues of their time. Nora Kelly, Executive Board Member and Treasurer for the Society, stated that debate topics are decided by discussing current news issues.
The society's first practice session of the semester took place on Feb. 10, followed by the third debate on March 24, 2025. The society can be followed on Instagram at thebjfsociety or reached out via email at [email protected].
The Benedict Joseph Fenwick Debating Society's resurgence on campus has been met with enthusiasm and anticipation. As the society continues to host debates in the upcoming semesters, it is certain to provide a vibrant and enlightening forum for the Holy Cross community to engage in thought-provoking discussions on the issues that matter most.
- The Benedict Joseph Fenwick Debating Society welcomes not only students but also community members to participate in its debates, fostering a diverse discussion on pressing issues.
- In the past, the debating society has addressed a wide range of topics, including the role of humanities in education and self-development, politics, and general news, aiming to catalyze critical thinking and communication.
- At Holy Cross campus, the debating society continues its legacy by hosting engaging events that encourage students and the community to exchange ideas on current events, such as the Middle East involvement and the elitism of humanities.
- As the society gears up for its upcoming debates, they can be followed on Instagram at thebjfsociety or contacted via email at [email protected].
- The debating society's resurgence has brought together a student body that values education, diversity, and the arts, creating a stronger sense of community on campus.
- The society's debates provide a unique platform for growth, empowering students with skills like critical thinking, public speaking, and persuasion, all while contributing to an enriching campus environment.
