Who We Are

The Oregon Forensics Foundation (OFF) is an independent nonprofit dedicated to supporting and advancing speech, debate, and mock trial education across Oregon. Forensics programs teach the skills of reasoned argument, effective advocacy, and civic participation — skills that strengthen individuals and sustain a healthy democracy. 

The Foundation was created in 2025 as a direct response to the sudden closure of the University of Oregon’s century-old speech and debate program and 15-year-old mock trial program. Alumni, students, and community members came together to ensure that students had immediate support during this crisis and that a permanent, independent structure existed to safeguard forensics opportunities in the future. 

Immediate Needs: Provide financial and organizational support to students affected by the UO program closure.
 

Long-Term Vision: Build a home for the broader Oregon forensics community — high school and college, speech and debate, and mock trial alike. The Foundation will be a vehicle for stability, fundraising, and collaboration, ensuring that forensics education remains accessible and strong statewide.

The Foundation’s work starts with the immediate crisis, but our vision extends beyond a single program or campus. We see an Oregon where every student who wants to participate in speech, debate, or mock trial has the resources and support to do so — and where forensics is recognized as an essential part of education and civic life.