October 22, 2008

Purdue Ag students to debate the quality of food choices

Participants this year will debate whether U.S. consumers have more quality food choices than ever before. A committee of Purdue faculty and staff determined the topic, which focuses on a prominent agricultural issue.

"This year, food quality and safety issues have been center stage," said Natalie Federer, agricultural communication academic adviser and Townsend debate coordinator.  "Even through Americans have the safest and most abundant food supply in the world, here and in other countries we are faced with food safety, quality and cost concerns."

The debate is open to teams of undergraduate students enrolled in the Purdue College of Agriculture. Four teams are participating this year.

The winning team members will each receive a new Dell laptop computer, along with a trophy. The second-place team members and best speaker will each receive their choice between a Dell Flip (digital camcorder) or an iPod nano.

Funding for the competition is provided by Wayne Townsend, a distinguished College of Agriculture alum, farmer and former politician.

"The Townsend Debate is a great opportunity for agriculture students to voice their thoughts and opinions on this topic in a fun, informal and competitive atmosphere," said Federer. "Participating in the debate gives students a chance to polish up their communication, research and team skills."

Debates will be held from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. in Pfendler Hall. The final debate will be 7 p.m. in the Deans Auditorium of Pfendler Hall. Guest judges for the final competition include Charles Hibberd, director of the Purdue Cooperative Extension Service, Corinne Alexander, assistant professor of agricultural economics, Robyn Heine, of Dow AgroSciences LLC and Andy Eubank of Hoosier Ag Today.

All debates are open to the general public and are free to attend. For more information, visit www.ydae.purdue.edu (under News) or contact Federer at (765) 494-8406.

Contact: Natalie Federer, (765) 494-8406, nfederer@purdue.edu

Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722;
Beth Forbes, forbes@purdue.edu
Agriculture News Page

Note to Journalists: Journalists are invited to cover the debate competition. Please contact Beth Forbes at forbes@purdue.edu or (765) 494-2722.

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