Support Aztec Speech and Debate
Aztec Forensics is dedicated to providing our students the help they need, especially when it comes to philanthropic support. We work diligently to make it possible for our students to participate in these programs at no cost to them, however, Forensics is a highly competitive and time consuming activity. We offer scholarships to our students to help them pay for their education while being able to still compete; and we ask for your help to continue doing so. Please look at the various giving opportunities below to see how you and others can support making Aztec Forensics accessible for all students.
Shanelle De Souza
“During my college application process, I found out about SDSU’s Speech and Debate team and excitedly applied to the University, and once I was admitted, I quickly contacted Mr. Loo to ask about joining the team. After I reached out, I was very generously offered a scholarship upon acceptance of my admission, which took me by surprise. Even though I had been competing since middle school, I never imagined I would receive a scholarship that acknowledged the hard work I had put in throughout the years. Receiving the scholarship helped alleviate some of the burden of paying for university. It also made me confident in my decision to continue Speech and Debate in college, and now, after officially joining the team, I have no regrets.”
Shanelle de Souza competes in Informative and Persuasive Speaking, as well as Prose, Poetry, and Duo Interpretation. She is the 2026 International Forensics Association 1st Place International Champion in Persuasive Speaking.
Jack Krepps
"In my second year participating in the SDSU Forensics program, I was generously awarded the Bernstein Endowed Fund for Forensics. This scholarship emphasizes the culmination of so many trials and triumphs in my competitive career, and in turn, offers precious financial support as I continue my journey on this team, and enables me to do so. The pathway through which I was able to achieve this phenomenal endowment was, in addition to the generous support of the Bernstein family, through the training of my renowned coaches with whom I've worked closely. The character I’ve built through this program has given me the tools to obtain and sustain leadership roles in the program, through my elected service as both the team Secretary and Treasurer, as well as in branches of our school’s student government, through my elected service to the Vice President of Internal Affairs on the PSFA College Council for the 2026-2027 school year. I am indebted to the remarkable coaching of both Oli Loeffler & Julian McKenzie, as well as Bennett Beltramo & John Loo for speech and debate respectively, for their remarkable coaching and profound influence on both my skills and character as a competitor for our team. And, most of all, I am immaculately grateful for each and every member, coach, and supporter of our ever-growing program here at SDSU."
Jack Krepps competes in Impromptu Speaking, Extemporaneous Speaking, Lincoln-Douglas Debate, NPDA Debate, IPDA Debate
Elora Watkins
"It was an honor to be recognized for my dedication and hard work put into the San Diego State University Forensic Speech and Debate team by receiving this prestigious scholarship. Before this year, I knew little about speech and debate but I decided to join because it would be a perfect experience as a communication major. Little did I know that speech and debate would become a true passion of mine and that I would become a National Champion in both persuasive and informative speaking. I have gained depth in communication skills, applicable professional development skills, many friends, and such great opportunities. SDSU Speech and Debate is something that I want to continue pursuing and growing through. As an out-of-state student, this scholarship provides the financial support I need to fund my education. Instead of worrying about my finances, I am improving my skills and investing in my future. Speech and Debate at SDSU is a valuable program for every single person. I'm so thankful for its impact in my life."
Elora Watkins competes in Informative, Persuasive, Communication Analysis, and Impromptu Speaking. She is a National Forensics Association National Novice Champion in Informative and Persuasive Speaking.
Kriston Qualls
“Being one of the chosen recipients of this scholarship is an immense honor. It enables me to continue to focus on this activity, my education, and my future. I am excited to spend the rest of my college career giving back to this community and team that has given me so much and to grow with this team, not only as a student but as a leader. With the financial pressure eased, I am excited to spend more time and energy helping new members excel in their events and contribute to the team in every way possible. Entering my third year at San Diego State University, I can't overstate the impact this scholarship has had on my family and me. I am so eternally grateful to be one of the recipients of the Bernstein Endowed Fund for Forensics Tuition Support Scholarship this year, as it will allow me to continue dedicating my time and energy to this activity.”
Kriston Qualls competes in Impromptu, Extemporaneous, and Communication Analysis Speaking, as well as Duo Interpretation and IPDA/NPDA Debate. He is a National Forensics Association National Novice Champion in Extemporaneous Speaking.