In Adrienne Brovero’s fast-talking world of forensics, most things are up for discussion. But there’s one thing about the head UMW debate coach that is inarguable – her talent.
“Adrienne Brovero is one of the best debate coaches in the country,” said UMW Director of Debate Timothy O’Donnell.
Adrienne Brovero. Photo by Marie Sicola
In November, the National Debate Tournament signaled its agreement with O’Donnell by honoring Brovero with the Ross K. Smith National Coach of the Year Award, reserved for exceptional teachers who have proven their ability to advance the forensic art. The annual award is presented during the Intercollegiate Debate Tournament at Wake Forest University, where Brovero spent much time honing her skills.
She twice made it to the National Debate Tournament semifinals while earning her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Wake. She also coached debate there and at the University of Michigan, Northwestern University, and the University of Richmond.
During most of her time at Mary Washington, Brovero has kept the debate team among the nation’s top 16, securing a third-place finish at the National Debate Tournament in 2010.