WASHINGTON – Howard University students will battle their counterparts from Yale during the 3rd Annual Great Debate at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 30. in Cramton Auditorium.

Journalist and political commentator Jeff Johnson will moderate the NAACP-sponsored debate. NAACP President and CEO Benjamin Jealous will attend along with other board members from the organization.

The Great Debate has become a tradition at the two universities.. At Yale, sold-out crowds have attended previous battles. This year’s debate marks the first time Howard hosts the event.

“We look forward to hosting Yale at Howard University,” said Allen Reynolds, captain of the HU Speech and Debate Team. “The debate will be very exciting, educational and entertaining for audience members.

General admission tickets are $20. VIP tickets are $50 and include special seats and a corporate pre-reception. Tickets can be purchased at Cramton’s box office and at Ticketmaster locations.  All tickets include a one-year youth membership to the NAACP. Adults who purchase tickets can donate the membership to a young person they choose.

Javaris Powell, Howard’s speech and debate team coach, said the team is fully prepared for the event.

“Hopefully the debate can encourage more dialogue between races that will cut across age and gender groups,” he said.