February 18, 2026
FDOE Press Office
850-245-0413
Florida Celebrates Civic Excellence: Sunshine State Debate Winners Unveiled
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas with first place winner Lillian Clay of North Florida College and second place winner Justice Robinson of Hillsborough College at the Sunshine State Debate Finals
Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas joins 2026 Florida Teacher of the Year Mark Harrison and sponsor representatives in recognizing the Sunshine State Debate finalists and semifinalists.
Tallahassee, Fla., February 18, 2026 – The Sunshine State Debate, a new initiative highlighting the talent of students in the Florida College System, announced its winners today in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas revealed the victors of this debut event, which attracted nearly 100 participants and focused on the pivotal moment when the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence.
Commissioner Kamoutsas expressed his admiration for the contestants, stating, “I was honored to announce the winners of the inaugural Sunshine State Debate. Throughout the competition, students’ mastery of civic discourse, thoughtful persuasion and a deep understanding of the constitutional ideals that shaped our nation were on display.” He further acknowledged the role of Governor DeSantis in integrating civics into student education, emphasizing the state’s dedication to upholding constitutional values.
Competition Winners:
- First Place, $1,500 Scholarship Awarded to: Lillian Clay, North Florida College
- Second Place, $1,000 Scholarship Awarded to: Justice Robinson, Hillsborough College
- Semifinalists, $750 Scholarship Awarded to:
- Makenna Bradley, State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota
- Andrea Manjaka, Hillsborough College
These scholarship awards were made possible by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and the Florida Council of Resource Development. Additionally, the Ronald Reagan Foundation and Institute will sponsor an all-expense paid trip for the first-place winner to judge at the National Debate Championship in California.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Debate style, known for its focus on civility, personality, and storytelling, was the chosen format for the competition. The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute played a crucial role by providing logistical support, virtual training, and an in-person orientation for the participants and their coaches.
The event’s success was backed by the support of various organizations, including the Florida College System Foundation, the Florida Student Success Center, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, the Association of Florida Colleges, Fifth Third Bank, Lawson Huck Gonzalez, PLLC, and Tallahassee State College.
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