Chicago Debate Commission is honored with a National Award

On November 20, the Chicago Debate Commission received one of the top three awards in the Mutual of America Community Partnership Award competition. Chosen from hundreds of applicants nationwide, the CDC received an Honorable Mention, along with a $25,000 prize to support our powerful urban debate programming.

The CDC was selected for its long-standing partnership with Chicago Public Schools in operating the Chicago Debate League (CDL). Eight representatives of the CDL, including CDC staff, Board members, and CPS representatives were invited to New York to attend the awards dinner. As an added bonus, CDC representatives, along with representatives from the other two top winners, participated in the November 20 NASDAQ closing bell ceremony, broadcast throughout the country.

Mutual of America sponsors the annual Community Partnerships Awards to recognize  impactful and replicable collaborations that stimulate new approaches to addressing significant social issues. “All of the 2013 honorees are leaders in society, creating innovative and effective solutions to help those in need,” said Thomas J. Moran, Chairman, President and CEO, Mutual of America. “The awards ceremony allowed us to get out of the trenches of our work and reflect broadly on the impact we’re having on at-risk students in Chicago. We are honored to be recognized for our longstanding partnership with CPS. The accolades have the important side benefit of energizing us for continued impact and growth,” said Edie Canter, Executive Director of the CDC as she reflects on the experience.

A Chicago celebration of the award will take place in February. The Chicago Debate Commission extends congratulations to all of the other honorees that are creating essential community partnerships to improve the lives of those they serve.