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Founder & CEO
Ron Bratt
In 2006, I founded Capitol Debate with a simple but powerful mission: to help young people find their voice through debate and public speaking.
What started in Howard County, Maryland has grown into a global community spanning 32 countries. But our core purpose has never changed. Every summer, every program, every lesson is designed to give students the confidence and communication skills they need to succeed—not just in competition, but in life.
We've produced national champions, Ivy League scholars, and successful professionals in every field. But what I'm most proud of are the thousands of students who came to us shy and uncertain, and left with the ability to stand up, speak out, and make their voices heard.
"Debate gives kids the chance to find their voice. It helps them learn to express themselves in the community and make a difference."— Ron Bratt, as quoted in the Baltimore Sun
Our Mission
Creating confident communicators who change the world
Capitol Debate exists to provide every student with the opportunity to develop essential communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills through debate and public speaking education. We believe these skills are not just academic—they're life-changing.
Find Their Voice
Help students overcome fear, build confidence, and learn to express themselves clearly and persuasively.
Think Critically
Develop analytical skills, logical reasoning, and the ability to evaluate arguments and evidence.
Lead with Confidence
Build the leadership skills and self-assurance needed to succeed in school, career, and life.
What Makes Us Different
Not all debate camps are created equal
Professional Educators
Our instructors are career educators with years of experience—not college students running a summer side gig. This is what we do, year-round.
20 Years of Excellence
We've refined our curriculum over two decades. Every lesson, every activity has been tested and improved based on real results.
AI-Enhanced Coaching
We integrate cutting-edge AI tools like Yoodli to provide personalized feedback and accelerate student improvement.
Proven Track Record
5 national championships, countless finalists, and thousands of success stories. Our results speak for themselves.
Global Community
Students from 32 countries create a diverse, enriching environment where different perspectives drive deeper learning.
Real-World Skills Focus
We teach more than competitive debate. We teach communication skills students will use in college interviews, careers, and life.
Safe & Secure Environment
Your child's safety is our top priority
We've been running camps for over 20 years, and we take safety seriously. Our team studies the standards of the American Camp Association closely, and we've developed comprehensive protocols to ensure every student is safe, supported, and able to focus on learning.
Background-checked staff (state & federal)
Adult dorm directors present 24/7
Extensive safety training for all staff
Nut-free policy at all locations
Key card access to all buildings
Residential advisors on every floor
Students required to remain in groups
Attendance taken at every class
Zero Tolerance for Bullying: We have a strict no-bullying policy and investigate every report thoroughly. A supportive community lets students learn free from unnecessary pressures or concerns.
In The News
Capitol Debate's impact recognized by major media
The Baltimore Sun
"Debate gives the kids the chance to find their voice. It helps them to learn to express themselves in the community and make a difference."— Feature on Capitol Debate, 2010
Howard County Times
"Over the next four years, Ronald Bratt plans to establish debate teams at all public county high schools through his nonprofit organization Capitol Debate."— 2007 Profile
US News & World Report
Capitol Debate recognized as one of the Top 100 Summer Camps in America— National Recognition
Ready to Find Your Voice?
Join the 10,000+ students who've transformed their lives at Capitol Debate