At Samford University's Bishop Guild Debates, Ophelia Cherry-Pulay '25 earned third place speaker. The debaters who attended the competition were the first debate team members to travel for competition in nearly three years. Continue reading for a full recap.
By Bill Wilson, Debate Coach
The debate team took its first bus trip in almost three years on Friday, January 13 en route to Birmingham, Alabama where University School of Nashville students competed against top programs from across the Southeast in Samford University's Bishop Guild Debates.
In the varsity division, Ophelia Cherry-Pulay '25 and Ellie Rothman '25 finished with a 3-3 record including a win over Pace Academy of Georgia, and two wins over Montgomery Bell Academy. The pair had a close first round against the eventual champions from Decatur High School in Georgia as well. Ophelia was recognized as the third overall speaker in open competition. Meanwhile, Alexander Clinton '24 and Eleanor Molvig '25 finished 1-5 with a win over the Carrollton Sacred Heart School of Florida.
In the novice division, Claire Gilliam '24 and Alondra Martinez Ordaz '26 finished with a 3-3 record. Claire won the ninth place speaker award among first year participants.
High School debate team members Alexander Clinton '24, Pera McMillian '26, Claire Gilliam '24, Ellie Rothman '25, Eleanor Molvig '25, Ophelia Cherry-Pulay '25, and Alondra Martinez Ordaz '26.
Peabody Demonstration School's first African-American graduate passed away September 3, 2025. Cassandra Teague Walker '67 returned to her alma mater many times to share her experiences with young students and is featured on the 21st Avenue garage mural.
The National Merit Scholarship Program honors seniors whose PSAT scores show exceptional academic ability and potential for success in rigorous college studies. Congratulations to seniors Darcy Dove, Finch Fleming, Evan Giles, Ismaeel Moskinzada, and Lin Zheng for this honor.
Thank you to the many families, faculty, and staff who have donated their pre-loved books, games, and puzzles for resale. USNA continues to accept donations. Fall Book Frenzy takes place Thursday, September 25 through Saturday, September 27 in Cheek Gym. This annual used book sale benefits the Hassenfeld Library.
USN Mission: University School of Nashville models the best educational practices. In an environment that represents the cultural and ethnic composition of Metropolitan Nashville, USN fosters each student’s intellectual, artistic, and athletic potential, valuing and inspiring integrity, creative expression, a love of learning, and the pursuit of excellence.