​(Orange, CA) -- Santiago Canyon College (SCC) Forensics Speech and Debate team recently competed in a national Phi Rho Pi tournament. Phi Ro Pi is a national forensic association for two-year colleges committed to increasing knowledge and appreciation of the forensics arts at junior and community colleges by fostering growth, development and participation in the activity. Established in 1929, Phi Ro Pi has the honor of being one of the oldest forensics organizations in the United States.

At the tournament, 10 SCC students competed in National Parliamentary Debate Association (NPDA) and International Public Debate Association (IPDA) events, as well as several individual speaking events. Special recognition goes to SCC student Rafiya Naqvi who excelled in the tournament, earning a bronze medal in IPDA debate by winning four of six debate rounds against the country's top debaters.

This year's SCC team is comprised of an all novice (first year) team and is currently ranked No. 12 in the US NPDA debate novice rankings.

“Despite the fact that this is the first year for all of our debaters, the team has taken home over two dozen awards and medals this season,” said Ralph Castellanos, SCC adjunct professor and forensics coach. “We at SCC are extremely proud of our competitors and look forward to more success next year.”

About Santiago Canyon College
Santiago Canyon College (SCC) serves more than 17,000 credit and noncredit students each semester. In In 2017, SCC was ranked #13 among the 50 Best Community Colleges in the U.S. by College Choice and is currently ranked #3 in California by bestcolleges.com a leading authority in college and university rankings and resources.The college prepares students for transfer to four-year institutions and careers, and provides courses for personal and professional development, as well as customized training for business and industry. The college is recognized for its adult education program which keeps the working adult - and senior - in mind by offering flexible schedules, and community locations. Serving the residents of Anaheim Hills, Orange, Tustin, and Villa Park, SCC is one of two comprehensive colleges under the auspices of the Rancho Santiago Community College District.

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