Xander graduated with a degree in Political Science and played a central role in building the UCSB Debate Team from the ground up. As a founder, he helped create a space rooted in curiosity, open dialogue, and genuine community. His passion for competition and his commitment to fostering diverse perspectives shaped the team’s early identity and set a standard for future members. Xander now works at Deloitte, where he continues to bring the same thoughtful leadership and collaborative spirit that defined his time with the team.

Gohan earned his degrees in Communication Studies and Sociology and made an immediate impact when he joined the team this past year. Despite being new, he quickly became a driving force in shaping team culture and supporting members across all events. As a two‑time national champion in After Dinner Speaking, he brought both excellence and warmth to the program, helping elevate the team’s competitive presence while strengthening its sense of community. Gohan is now pursuing his master’s degree at CSU Long Beach.

Barbara graduated with a degree in Economics and contributed to the team through both her competitive events and her behind‑the‑scenes support. She competed in IPDA, Extemporaneous Speaking, and Impromptu, and her reliability and creativity helped the club run smoothly throughout the year. Her wide range of interests, from mixed martial arts to music production, reflects the same curiosity she brought to forensics. Fluent in Spanish and shaped by international experiences, Barbara is spending this year traveling in Spain.