Wiley announced at a news conference that the Melvin B. Tolson/Denzel Washington Forensics Society will host an exhibition debate with the University of Southern California in January during the College's Ethical Student Leadership Conference. Pictured from left at the news conference are Mr. Cary Chavis, a senior at Wiley; Mr. Christopher Medina, the Director of Forensics at Wiley; and Mr. Chad Mossman, a senior at Wiley. Mr. Chavis and Mr. Mossman will participate in the debate.

Debate teams of Wiley College and the University of Southern California to have a rematch

The Melvin B. Tolson/Denzel Washington Forensics Society of Wiley College will host an exhibition debate with the University of Southern California on Friday, January 27, 2012. The debate will take place on the Wiley campus during its Ethical Student Leadership Conference.

The two schools first met 77 years ago when they competed before an audience of 1,100 people, with Wiley, under the direction of Professor Melvin B. Tolson, earning the victory. The 2007 movie, "The Great Debaters," tells the story of this historic win, but in the movie, the team debates Harvard University.

"Wiley College and the University of Southern California first met in a country divided by a color line. I am proud that all these years later, these schools will meet in a country that celebrates differences, knows that skin color is no determinant of intelligence, and recognizes that we share a common humanity," said Dr. Haywood L. Strickland, President and CEO of Wiley College.

"This is a joyful time for Wiley," said Dr. Joseph L. Morale, the College's Vice President for Student Affairs and Enrollment Services. "Our students and all students who will have the opportunity to watch or hear this debate, will experience a living history lesson."

Mr. Christopher Medina, the College's Director of Forensics, echoes the comments of Dr. Morale."This is an incredible opportunity to pay homage to this historic debate and these individuals who overcame great adversity to become champions."

The Melvin B. Tolson/Denzel Washington Forensics Society, with the help of a gift from Denzel Washington, returned to competition three years ago and has made great strides since that time. The team ranked in the top 10 in the 2011 Pi Kappa Delta National Tournament, and is currently ranked third in debate sweepstakes.