LOOKING FOR THE BUD ROOM?
FIND US IN THE TOURNAMENT OFFICE! SHERATON – PRESS CLUB | CROWNE PLAZA – KESSLER We are constantly striving to make speech and debate a more inclusive and welcoming activity. In an effort to clarify and improve the rules adjudication process for the membership, the NSDA has further defined the roles of Ombudspeople, Equity Officers, Rules Adjudication Panelists, and National Tournament Directors. • An Ombudsperson is a person who, via the Tournament Office, attempts to provide important information to attendees and helps to resolve issues that may arise throughout the course of the tournament. • Equity Officers provide a first point of contact for attendees with inquiries related to harassment and discrimination at the tournament. • Rules Adjudication Panelists are responsible for gathering all relevant data associated with a formal protest, interviewing the protesting and protested parties, and rendering a final decision to uphold or decline the protest and determine the appropriate penalties, if applicable. Decisions are final and may not be appealed. • The National Tournament Director and Assistant National Tournament Director serve as advisors to the rules adjudication panelists and ombudspeople and are the head administrators of the National Tournament.
Inclusive Restrooms LOOK FOR THIS SIGN!
(see pages 34-37 for locations)
The National Speech & Debate Association has designated restrooms in each of the venues that can be used by anyone. We want to thank you for respecting our diverse community of participants, judges, coaches, and observers. – 52 –