The UCSB Speech & Debate Team has existed in various forms over the years, but it wasn’t until Fall 2024 that the program began its modern revival. When junior transfer student Xander Hepburn arrived on campus, the team was on the verge of disappearing. Only two online tournaments had been attended the previous year, in‑person competition had halted entirely, and no leadership remained to carry the program forward.

Xander stepped in as president and rebuilt the team from the ground up, assembling new members, establishing a fresh executive board, and setting a renewed competitive vision. By October 31, 2024, the revitalized team had already competed in two in‑person tournaments (the Jannese Davidson Memorial Tournament and the Sunset Cliffs Classic) with a growing roster of 7–10 competitors and plans for additional tournaments that same quarter. 

At the beginning of the 2025 to 2026 school year, Gohan Huynh joined Xander in the executive leadership of the team. In addition to taking on much of the executive burden, Gohan was instrumental in developing the speech side of the team and fostering a sense of community. During this year, the team grew rapidly to over 35 members and attended many more regional tournaments, as well as national and international tournaments. At these tournaments, UCSB performed extraordinarily, winning many sweepstakes awards and having medalists across all divisions (see more about this on Awards page).

Looking ahead, the long‑term goal is to transform the team from a student organization into an officially recognized part of UCSB’s academic community. With UCSB’s deep well of talent and enthusiasm, the team is committed to expanding its competitive presence and building a lasting legacy.