CMU Debate goes undefeated in Miami

This past weekend, freshmen Enzo Cimaroli and Mason Pickard competed at the University of Miami’s prestigious Oceans Debate Tournament, where they went undefeated through all preliminary and elimination rounds.

The tournament focused on the timely resolution: “A 10-year moratorium on mining in the international seabed should be enacted.” The resolution touched on issues of economics, science, environmentalism, and geopolitics. Enzo and Mason demonstrated exceptional poise, research depth, and strategic argumentation in every round—ultimately advancing to and winning the championship.

Adding to the prestige of the event, the semifinal and final rounds were judged by a panel of experts in environmental policy and marine science, including:

• Gabriella Berman, MS, JD – PhD Fellow, Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy, University of Miami Rosenstiel School
• Dr. Alanna Lecher – University Research Coordinator & Associate Professor, Environmental Science & Policy, Lynn University
• Toni Lohroff, M.S. – Director of Education & Outreach, Seakeepers
• Rosie Moore – Citizen Science Manager, Seakeepers

This extraordinary performance by two first-year students not only reflects their individual talent and work ethic, but also reflects the strength of the entire team, who worked together to research and practice arguments.