FAIRFIELD, Conn. –

Earlier this month, junior Helen Miller of the Fitch Debate Team competed in the varsity final of the January CDA competition, bringing home her first trophy. 

Miller secured a trip to the final, going 4-0 for the day away at Fairfield Warde High School on Jan. 29. She competed as a singleton and was partnered with sophomore Amelia Nandikesan of Stamford High School. They competed on Jan.11 against teams from Farmington, Bethel, Blind Brook, and King School. The motion was, “This House supports US efforts to remove the Maduro Government in Venezuela.”

Miller credits the debate team for helping her develop a crucial set of intellectual skills.

“Overall, I’ve felt that being in debate not only expanded my ability to think and refute, but it also helped me think critically and analyze.”

In her recent performance, Miller was unable to participate with her usual partner and instead was partnered with a student from a different district. Despite the unusual circumstances, she felt comfortable and connected with both her classmates and Nandikesan. 

“The support [from the Fitch Debate Team] was what allowed me to compete so well as a singleton,” she stated. “I was able to adapt to my partner’s style, as well as communicate with her and go against schools I’ve never seen before.”

Miller will join seniors Megan Lacey, Katie Virtue, and Avery Horan in attending the CDA state finals in March.