Fork Union Military Academy junior Nicholas Coleman made history this past weekend, delivering a standout performance at the Ronald Reagan Debate Series hosted by the Collegiate School in Richmond, Virginia. Facing off against students from 10 schools across Virginia and North Carolina, Coleman advanced through multiple rounds of intense individual competition to earn a third-place finish and a semifinalist medal.

In even more exciting news, Coleman has officially qualified for the NSDA National Speech and Debate Tournament, set to take place this summer in Des Moines, Iowa. The National Speech and Debate Association’s annual tournament is one of the most elite competitions in the country, open only to the top-performing debaters from each state.

Based on available records, Coleman is the first cadet in Fork Union Military Academy history to qualify for NSDA Nationals, and the first cadet to qualify for any national debate tournament since the 2017–2018 school year.

"This historic achievement is a testament not only to Coleman’s talent and determination, but also to the support of the broader Fork Union community," head debate coach Michael Head. "Thank you to the faculty, staff, and volunteers who have judged competitions, mentored students, and championed the team throughout the season."

Please join us in congratulating Coleman on this extraordinary milestone and wishing him continued success as he prepares to represent Fork Union on the national stage.