Silicon Valley Urban Debate League Holds Annual Fundraiser in Palo Alto

In 2014, a dedicated group of community leaders and educators came together to found the Silicon Valley Urban Debate League (SVUDL), an organization that helps students in underserved communities hone the power of their voices through the rigors of academic sport debate. Ten years later, SVUDL hosted its 2024 “Word to the Wise” fundraiser to ensure that the group can keep doing its valuable community work. 

On September 26, gala attendees gathered at the Palo Alto Hills Golf & Country Club to enjoy a fun-filled evening of celebrating the nonprofit organization’s important work in the community. The delightful event included a reception where guests had the opportunity to mingle with friends and meet SVUDL students, and learn about the impact the group has had on young lives. The reception was followed by an elegant three-course dinner. 

The night’s program also included the presentation of SVUDL’s Speaker of the Year award to California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero. Justice Guerrero then had an intimate fireside chat with the Honorable Julia Alloggiamento, about her experiences growing up the child of Mexican immigrants. Guerrero’s parents instilled in her a dedication to  justice and equity for vulnerable communities, which has led her to champion first-generation college students using their voices to change the world.  

SVUDL Executive Director Rolland Janairo said, “SVUDL students deserve to be at the table, and once they are there, they succeed.  Our community is a shining example of what’s possible with the long-term impact of speech and debate.” The Silicon Valley Urban Debate League draws on the best strategies and resources from a national network of 22 successful Urban Debate Leagues to address local needs in the Bay Area.