A premier 5-day debate and leadership experience, hosted by Founding Forward and the Bill of Rights Institute where students can learn and improve their debate and public speaking skills.
Program Date: July 20-24, 2026
Hosted and presented in partnership with Founding Forward and The Bill of Rights Institute, The Debate & Leadership Institute held in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania is a unique, 5-day, overnight debate program where rising 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students from across the nation gather to strengthen their debate skills and deepen their civic knowledge.
With expert-led discussions, real-world debate training, and a competitive tournament, this experience will shape the next generation of engaged citizens.
The majority of the program is held on Founding Forward’s private 75-acre campus in Valley Forge.
The cost to attend this program is $1,150. Many students can attend free of charge thanks to generous donations from Founding Forward donors, chapters, and partner organizations. Learn more about what is included in the cost and sponsorship opportunities.
All interested students are invited to attend the program. Selections are based on the following criteria:
Students entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade
Rising leaders seeking to improve & strengthen public speaking & debate skills
Written prompts and letter of recommendation
Interested in joining? Apply today!
Public speaking skills are at the foundation of debate – speech and debate work hand in hand to build essential, real-world skills in young Americans.
The Debate & Leadership Institute, presented by both Founding Forward and the Bill of Rights Institute, allows rising 10th, 11th, and 12th graders the ability to hone their skills in communication, debate, and public speaking in the places where history happened – Valley Forge and Philadelphia.
During their stay, students will also have the opportunity to explore historic Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where speech and debate helped forge our country’s founding documents, with an expert guide. Sites include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and more.
Monday
Student arrival, ice breakers, group and goal setting activities, and games
Tuesday
Intro to debate, scholar led discussions, and group activities
Wednesday
Tour of Historic Philadelphia
Thursday
Debate prep and workshops, practice rounds, group leadership activities, and student banquet
Friday
Competitive debate rounds at The Union League of Philadelphia, closing ceremony, and tour of historic Union League
This is a summary of the daily events. Additional activities and events will be included. Schedule subject to change.
Throughout their experience, students will develop leadership skills to help them stand out in college and career. Through various activities and exercises, students will be able to hone a variety of skills including teamwork, communication, and problem-solving while exploring the civic virtues – personal accountability, respect, productivity, generosity, and political participation.
The camp will culminate in a debate tournament, held at the historic Union League of Philadelphia, where students can celebrate their hard work and progress.
Read our FAQ’s below or email us at [email protected] with additional questions.
While the cost of the program is $1,150 which includes lectures, room and board, all meals, site visits, program materials, and the registration fee, all interested students are encouraged to apply – cost should not be a barrier.
Many students can attend the Debate & Leadership Institute free of charge thanks to generous donations from Founding Forward donors, chapters, and partner organizations including the Bill of Rights Institute. All qualified applicants will be considered, regardless of ability to pay.
After a student applies, the Founding Forward education team will notify the student of their acceptance and sponsorship status. If a student has been accepted, they will be sent a registration form which must be completed in order to attend the program. Please note that a non-refundable $150 fee is required at the time of registration (after a student has applied and been accepted).
We are committed to ensuring that every qualified participant has the opportunity to take part in our programs. Should the total cost of the program present a challenge, applicants are encouraged to select that they need financial support to attend (located at the end of the application) and to contact our team.
For more assistance on sponsorships and cost of the program, please contact us.
Founding Forward’s work and mission is made possible through voluntary contributions. We need your support to ensure a future rooted in liberty. Please join our efforts to uphold our democratic system of government with your tax-deductible contribution.
