HISTORY
The Speech & Debate Canada Foundation's history is defined by two titan figures: Willis McLeese, whose vision and philanthropy championed debate in Canada, and his son Robert McLeese, who founded the organization in 2017 to carry that legacy forward. S&DCF focuses on establishing and supporting school debate clubs nationwide, giving students the tools to think critically and advocate effectively. Our work is grounded in three core values: Inclusive Education, ensuring every child has access regardless of background; Respectful Discourse, fostering democratic dialogue; and Future Preparedness, equipping
youth to tackle tomorrow’s challenges with resilience and collaboration.
Willis Stewart McLeese
Visionary - 1913 - 2011
Willis McLeese combined business success with a lifelong commitment to philanthropy. Known for his tireless work ethic and innovative spirit, he supported causes close to his heart, including providing a home for the Georgian Riding Association for Challenged Equestrians for nearly 20 years. Since 1974, Willis championed the Canadian Student Debating Federation, believing every student should access debate. In 2002, McLeese Debate was founded to ensure this vision endures, laying the foundation for Speech & Debate Canada Foundation.
Tom Lawson, founder of the Canadian Student Debating Federation wrote: “The CSDF, for which Willis McLeese has been Initiator, Mentor, Godfather and Guide for 34 years, has been making a significant contribution to the quality of public life in Canada. I honestly believe that, were it not for him, we would not be here."
Robert McLeese, MBA, CA
Founder
Robert McLeese is the Founder and President of Access Capital Corp., a Toronto-based advisory firm specializing in financing and developing projects in the independent power industry. He also serves as a Director of Export Development Canada and several other companies. In 2017, with the support of the McLeese Debate Advisory Council, Robert founded the Speech & Debate Canada Foundation to carry forward his father Willis McLeese’s vision of ensuring every Canadian student has access to debate.
Robert’s contributions, both professional and personal, have received wide recognition. He is the recipient of the 2017 Hedley Palmer Award, 2012 Queen's Diamond Jubilee Award, and 2011 Probyn Award for Sustainable Energy Development and Innovative Finance.