The 150th Annual Richard T. Merrick Dinner

The annual Richard T. Merrick Debate, commonly referred to as simply “Merrick,” is the marquee event hosted by Georgetown University’s Philodemic Society at the end of each spring semester. The event, which is now in its 150th running, is typically held on the Saturday before final examinations begin and honors the Society’s best orators and rhetoricians.

Established in 1874, this grand tradition was created to promote free flowing, substantive debate and advance the Society’s founding motto: Eloquentiam Libertati Devinctam. Eloquence in the Defense of Liberty. That core mission remains unchanged after a century and a half.

Each year, Merrick offers members of the Philodemic Society and students throughout Georgetown an unparalleled opportunity to exchange ideas, hone rhetoric, build community, and promote understanding.

On the evening of Merrick, students and guests reconvene for the Annual Richard T. Merrick Dinner. Held at a prominent venue in Washington, DC, the dinner allows the Philodemic to reflect meaningfully on the past year, reconnect with friends and alumni, foster inter-organizational community, and honor the Merrick keynoters and the winner of the prestigious Merrick Medal.

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