Florida Launches Charlie Kirk Debate Scholarship At New College – NewsRadio WFLA
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FLORIDA – Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced a new statewide speech and debate competition that will honor the late political commentator Charlie Kirk.
The announcement was made Monday during a press conference at New College of Florida, where DeSantis was joined by Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins, Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas, and New College President Richard Corcoran.
The competition will take place in April 2026 and is part of the Florida Civics and Debate Initiative, which aims to strengthen civics education and promote civil discourse among students.
The grand prize, renamed the Charlie Kirk Award, will include a $50,000 scholarship.
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The runner-up will receive $25,000, semifinalists will each be awarded $15,000, and quarterfinalists will earn $10,000.
DeSantis said the initiative aligns with the state’s broader efforts to make Florida a model for civics education.
He added that the scholarship honors Kirk’s commitment to open discussion and civic engagement.
Kirk was fatally shot while hosting a debate at a university event earlier this year.
Authorities say the suspect allegedly opened fire during the event before being detained.
New College officials also announced plans to erect a statue of Kirk on campus to commemorate his contributions to public discourse.
The debate competition and accompanying scholarships are expected to draw students from across Florida, reflecting the state’s ongoing investment in civics-based education and academic competition.
