Grace Blackwell is an anomaly – a highly decorated college debater with no previous high school experience. Alongside the hard work and dedication required to achieve these heights, she also laid the groundwork for the newest Urban Debate League in the nation in Birmingham. 

The Samford alum moved to D.C. and took on a big challenge this fall – make a team happen at KIPP DC College Prep, which hasn’t had a team except for a brief moment in 2016, ever. She recruited a teacher-sponsor, and prepared her students all season, jumping them straight to JV with strong technical skills and a deep understanding of the topic. Duchess led the way, winning 1st place and several speaker awards this Spring, but her impact was felt far beyond the KIPP DC College Prep team, giving incisive and deep feedback across the league. 

We look forward to working with her for many years to come!