Pfeiffer University reached a long‑awaited milestone at the 2026 NCICU Ethics Bowl. After years without securing a single round win, this year’s ethical debate team made program history, winning three of four rounds and finishing just one victory shy of the championship finals.

The 2026 team included seniors Lola Cabaniss‑Ali ’26 and Laurin Rauer ’26, junior Ayden Griffin ’27, and sophomore Alim Coleman ’28. Cabaniss‑Ali and Rauer were the only returning competitors. The team was sponsored by Dr. Jesse McCartney and his wife, Kay.

The Falcons earned standout wins over High Point University, Livingstone College, and three‑time champion Queens University of Charlotte before falling in a close match to Barton College. For a program that had never experienced a round victory, beginning the day 3–0 was nothing short of extraordinary.

Reflecting on their performance, Rauer said the team arrived with modest expectations after past disappointments.

“We were quite upset after previous efforts. We arrived with no real expectations—not even making it to the semis,” he said.

Cabaniss‑Ali echoed that sentiment, sharing that her initial goal was simply to win one or two rounds. “Going undefeated for most of the day was an incredible feeling,” she said. Coleman added that he never imagined the team would advance so far.

As captain, Cabaniss‑Ali emphasized the value of the team’s diverse perspectives. Each member played a distinct role: Rauer opened and closed presentations, Coleman handled the factual analysis, and Griffin added emotional resonance with personal examples. Coleman admitted memorization was challenging at times, but the team’s support helped him succeed:

“They would push me in the right direction, and I’d be able to figure it out,” he said.

Preparation was rigorous. The team practiced at least three times a week, reviewed each case in depth, and held mock rounds in advance of competition day.

For 15 years, the NCICU Ethics Bowl has challenged students to explore ethical questions tied to pressing societal issues. Students prepare for months, analyzing case studies and building arguments grounded in ethical theory. Unlike a debate, teams may argue the same side of an issue, and they are judged on preparation, clarity, and principled ethical reasoning.

The competition includes four rounds for all teams. Each match is judged by a panel of three volunteers from business, government, and the community, with a moderator ensuring fairness and timing. The four teams with the best records advance to the semifinals, and the winners compete in the final round.

Each team consists of four to six students led by a campus coordinator. Dozens of civic, corporate, nonprofit, and government leaders volunteer annually as judges and moderators.

Beyond competition results, team members said the experience broadened their horizons. Coleman noted how valuable it was to become comfortable with discomfort. Cabaniss‑Ali highlighted the relationships she formed.

“It’s so diverse, and the networking with judges—from LinkedIn connections to having dinner in another city with people I never thought I’d meet—was incredible,” Cabaniss-Ali said.

Rauer added that speaking with professors, attorneys, and CEOs made the experience particularly meaningful.

The students were especially excited to receive congratulations from Tom West, son of former Pfeiffer president Dr. Cameron West. Now NCICU’s vice president for government relations and general counsel, West and the students spent time discussing wide‑ranging topics from AI to leadership to the future of public policy. Prior to joining NCICU, West was a partner at Poyner Spruill LLP for over 17 years and, prior to that, served North Carolina as an administrative law judge for 11 years.

The Falcons attribute their success to authenticity, honesty and teamwork. By supporting one another and embracing their individual strengths, they found a competitive edge.

Their professionalism also drew praise from Dr. Deborah Burris, Associate Professor of Communication Studies and team advisor.

“I have never seen four individuals come together so powerfully,” she said, noting their dedication despite demanding schedules.

For a team once hoping simply to win a single round, the 2026 Ethics Bowl marks a turning point. The Falcons didn’t just show up, they proved they belong at the top.