The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute announces the results of the 2025 Ronald Reagan Debate Series Championship

$50,000 in Scholarship Money Awarded

(Simi Valley, CA.) The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute is proud to announce the results of the Ronald Reagan Debate Series Championship held at the Reagan Library in Simi Valley, California. The topic, “A nationalized system of higher education would best serve the interests of students in the United States,” sparked a spirited and engaging debate. On a four to one vote, Haiet Ashar from Lake Nona High School in Florida was named the Champion. 

“The entire experience was just so surreal. From meeting some of the most bright students in this country to interacting with individuals that were making a difference in the world as we knew it, that experience taught me so much that I will never forget. It gave me the knowledge that I can make a difference in my life, no matter where I am or what I choose to do. I will eternally be grateful to the Reagan Foundation for giving me this opportunity, because they didn't just change my perspective, they changed my path, and I'm so excited to see where this new path leads,” stated Haiet Ashar.

Each of the 14 finalists received an all-expense paid trip to the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, CA, where they competed for the top spot and a share of $50,000 in scholarships.

The Ronald Reagan Debate Series is a premier national speech and debate tour, featuring a blend of in-person regional competitions and online events, culminating in a prestigious national tournament held in Simi Valley, CA.

“The Ronald Reagan Debate Series celebrates the critical thinking and rhetorical talents of high school students across the nation,” said Dr. Richard Schroeder, Chief Education Programming Officer at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute. “By fostering a culture of civil discourse—where students are encouraged to explore diverse perspectives and articulate their ideas with clarity—we aim to empower the next generation to become informed, respectful citizens. This mission reflects the enduring values championed by President Reagan.”

Congratulations to our 2025 finalists and their high schools. Learn more about the Ronald Reagan Debate Series at www.reaganfoundation.org/debate.  

To see the final round of debate and the awards ceremony introducing each debater, view it on our YouTube channel here.

About the Reagan Foundation and Institute

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI) is the sole nonprofit organization created by President Reagan charged with advancing his legacy and principles – individual liberty, economic opportunity, freedom and democracy, peace through strength, and national pride. 

A globally recognized nonpartisan organization based in Simi Valley, CA, with a leading policy institute in Washington, DC, RRPFI delivers impactful public affairs programming, policy convenings and projects of national and international significance, and distinctive educational initiatives.  In addition, RRPFI sustains the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, the largest and most visited presidential library, which routinely hosts major special exhibitions.

An hour from Los Angeles International Airport, RRPFI’s Simi Valley campus sits on 400 acres, serves as the final resting place of America’s 40th President and former First Lady Nancy Reagan, displays a chunk of the Berlin Wall, and houses the plane President Reagan flew on as Air Force One to 26 countries. Onsite are the Reagan Center for Public Affairs, Presidential Learning Center, Air Force One Pavilion, and the Reagan Leadership Center.  More information is available at www.reaganfoundation.org.

###