About Us

Austin Keefe (Class of 2026) is a former member of the UARK Speech and Debate Society and a graduate of the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville with majors in Criminology, Political Science and Spanish with a minor in sociology.

During his undergraduate experience, Austin was extremely successful in individual and team debate styles. In his freshman year, Austin began in the Varsity division, making multiple outround appearances, including one at the national tournament in Boise, Idaho in 2023. He and his then debate partner, Hadley Adkison (Class of 2025) also finished as semifinalists in the Team IPDA division at the national tournament. Throughout the next three years, Austin continued to grow and develop his craft, which culminated in a perfect season his senior year - breaking at every tournament attended, winning three tournaments (two Team IPDA, one IPDA), and finishing as the IPDA Season-Long Varsity Speaker.

Austin notes that his favorite memory of his time in undergraduate competition was winning the Team IPDA championship with his former partner, Emma Powell, at Lee College. Austin’s least favorite memory was being Pavlov’d by his coach (Hannah).

He will continue representing the UARK Speech and Debate Society as a professional debater for the 2026-2027 school year, as well as furthering his mentorship of members of the team.

Austin plans to attend law school in 2027.