The Small College Director of Forensics

Authors

• Deborah S. Ballard-Reisch, University of Nevada, Reno

Abstract

This article reports findings from interviews with directors of forensics at fifteen small colleges in the Midwest in order to document the scope of responsibilities associated with administering active forensics programs in limited size institutions. The study identifies programs through national tournament participation and enrollment criteria and provides descriptive data on team size, coaching assignments, release time, and travel frequency. Analysis reveals that small college forensics programs are highly active, with directors overseeing individual events and debate squads, organizing extensive tournament travel, and managing teams that range widely in size. The article details the substantial teaching and coaching loads carried by directors, who often receive minimal release time despite supervising large numbers of competitors and multiple travel commitments. It further examines co curricular and extra curricular responsibilities, noting directors’ extensive involvement in campus programming, collaboration with area high schools, community speaking engagements, and participation in professional organizations. The findings indicate that directors engage in diversified activities that enhance program visibility, support institutional goals, and justify the value of forensics within resource constrained environments. The article concludes that diversification of activities contributes to the sustainability of small college forensics programs and demonstrates the broad educational and communal benefits they provide.

Recommended Citation

Ballard-Reisch, Deborah S. (1985) "The Small College Director of Forensics," Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 54, Article 27.
Available at: https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol54/iss1/27