The A. Craig Baird Debate Forum is the oldest student group on campus. Started in 1861, the team is proud to continue a legacy of over 150 years of promoting critical thought, public dialogue, and the creation of a more just world for all people. In its modern form, the A. Craig Baird Debate Forum trains students to compete in intercollegiate policy debate competitions, hosts public debates, maintains a prominent Speaker Series, and helps promote debate all over the world.

In 2018, Iowa became one of only two schools to produce co-national champion teams in debate's 71 year history. Iowa joined Harvard and Emory as the only schools to have won the NDT, CEDA, and the Copeland Award.   

The team is currently located on the 3rd floor of the Jefferson Building, 129 E. Washington Street, Iowa City, IA 52242.