Ribbon Cutting Celebrates Milestone with Community, Civic, and Business Leaders
Oviedo, FL – The Florida Debate Initiative (FDI) officially unveiled its new headquarters earlier this week with a ribbon-cutting and grand opening ceremony, bringing together students, educators, and prominent community leaders to celebrate this new chapter for competitive speech and debate in Florida.
“This headquarters is more than just walls and a roof; it’s a launchpad for the next generation of leaders and change-makers. Today, we don’t just celebrate a building—we celebrate the limitless potential of Florida’s youth,” said Abraham Lopez, President of FDI, who served as Master of Ceremonies for the event. “This milestone is a testament to what happens when a community comes together with a shared vision of empowering students. We are grateful to everyone who has made this dream a reality.
The program featured remarks from a distinguished lineup of speakers, including:
Rebekah Arthur, President and CEO of the Seminole County Chamber, emphasized the Chamber’s ongoing support for FDI’s mission.
Beth Eskin, FDI Co-Founder, and Senior Advisor, reflected on the journey leading to this milestone and the impact of competitive speech and debate on students.
Tara Tedrow, FDI Board President and Co-Founder, shared her vision for expanding FDI’s impact across Florida.
Luis Carvajal, a student speaker, inspired the audience with his story of personal growth through FDI programs.
Sherri Hyde, a teacher from Seminole High School, highlighted the transformative role of debate in the classroom.
Megan Sladek, Mayor of Oviedo, welcomed FDI to the city and applauded its contributions to the community.
Santiago Avila Jr., Mayor of Deltona, expressed gratitude for FDI’s commitment to empowering young Floridians.
In addition to the speakers, the event was attended by prominent community and civic leaders, including U.S. Congressman Cory Mills' District Director Amy Dunn, Oviedo City Councilmen Jeff Boddiford and Keith Britton, former Oviedo Mayor Mimi Bruce, former Oviedo Councilmembers Judith Dolores Smith and Stephen Schenck, Oviedo Citizens in Action President Vertrilla Kathy Hunt, Tiger Bay Club Executive Director Nick Grounds, and many others. Local business leaders, educators, and supporters filled the parking lot, reflecting the widespread enthusiasm for FDI’s mission.
Special Thanks to Community Heroes
FDI extended heartfelt gratitude to local community members Charles Flores and his son Leland for donating their services to enhance the new headquarters. Leland is a Hagerty High School student who generously contributed 100 construction service hours to make the space a reality. Their support exemplifies the spirit of community collaboration that makes FDI’s work possible.
FDI’s new headquarters will serve as a hub for program development, teacher training, and event planning, supporting its mission to expand access to speech and debate opportunities statewide.
“Debate is more than a competition; it’s a tool for shaping critical thinkers and compassionate leaders. This new headquarters will allow us to amplify that impact across Florida,” said Tara Tedrow, FDI Board Chair and co-founder. “The overwhelming support we’ve received from civic, business, and community leaders proves that speech and debate is a cause worth championing. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for Florida.”
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About Florida Debate Initiative (FDI)
The Florida Debate Initiative promotes competitive speech and debate across Florida’s middle and high schools, empowering emerging student leaders with essential communication, leadership, and critical thinking skills. Through its partnership with the Florida Florida Civics and Debate Initiative (FCDI), FDI aims to make speech and debate accessible to students from all backgrounds across the state. To learn more about the Florida Debate Initiative, go to www.FloridaDebate.org or follow us on social media @FloridaDebate.
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