Kicking off the School Year with a BBQ
As the warm summer days drew to a close, the excitement of the upcoming debate season filled the air. To bid farewell to the season and embrace the new one, we organized a delightful BBQ, an event that not only celebrated but also strengthened our close-knit SVUDL community. Bringing together a diverse gathering of over twenty people, including students, family members, and dedicated staff, the event exuded a sense of camaraderie and unity. Underneath the clear skies, we officially welcomed everyone back for the highly anticipated 2023-24 Speech and Debate Season.
The day was filled with activities that kept everyone engaged and entertained. Laughter echoed through the air as students immersed themselves in the spirit of friendly competition, indulging in an exciting game of Red Light, Green Light. The fun continued with multiple rounds of water balloon toss, splashes of water adding to the refreshing atmosphere. To cater to various interests, an assortment of card games was set up, providing an opportunity for both casual and intense gaming sessions.
Amidst the laughter and games, the aroma of freshly grilled burgers and hot dogs wafted through the gathering, tantalizing taste buds and filling the atmosphere with a sense of shared delight. The sizzling sounds were a testament to the grilling skills of SVUDL Staff, Kwodwo Moore (Senior Program Specialist) and Rolland Janairo (Executive Director), ensuring that everyone relished the delicious treats.
Beyond the casual fun and enjoyment, the BBQ also served as a unique occasion for SVUDL students to interact with their league competitors in a more relaxed setting. Chloe Truong from Independence High School said her, “Favorite part of the summer barbecue was how we were all able to get to know each other outside of the typical competition environment. It was nice being able to bond with members from my team as well as others.” Ryan Nguyen, a student from Yerba Buena HIgh School said, “It was an interesting experience that allowed me to meet and talk with other debaters. I was grateful that they accommodated for transportation.” Moreover, it provided an excellent opportunity for the current students to reconnect with SVUDL alumni who had already graduated, fostering a sense of continuity and mentorship within the community.
The success of our summer programming was a source of immense joy for all of us. Throughout the break from school, we endeavored to serve our students not only with enjoyable games and sumptuous food but also through valuable professional development (find out more about our visit to the Orrick Law Firm here) and academic access (explore our visit to the Stanford Graduate School of Business here), enriching our student’s lives and learning experiences.
In conclusion, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who participated and made the event a resounding success. It is the dedication and support of each individual that makes the SVUDL community flourish, and we eagerly look forward to an inspiring and rewarding Speech and Debate Season ahead!
