2026 Columbia University Invitational

VDA finished January on a high note, securing major victories at both Columbia University Invitional this weekend.

At the highly competitive Columbia University Invitational, the duo of Flora Tu and Joshua Zhou powered through a massive field of 135 teams to advance to the Triple Octofinals in Varsity Public Forum. Joshua Zhou further distinguished himself by placing as the 19th Speaker of the field.

Their strong finish at Columbia caps an outstanding month for Flora and Joshua, who also reached the elimination rounds at the Arizona State University tournament earlier in January, securing them a coveted bid to the Tournament of Champions this spring.

Coach Bryan praised their trajectory, “Joshua and Flora had an outstanding month on the China topic, making the trophy rounds at both Columbia and Arizona State, and earning a bid to the TOC in the process. We can’t wait to see what they and the rest of the team can accomplish in February!”

Congratulations to All Our Debaters

Please join us in congratulating Flora, and Joshua on their exceptional achievements. The entire VDA community is thrilled by your success and looks forward to your continued excellence at some of the world’s most prestigious tournaments!

Let’s go VDA!!!