Joel Underwood is a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Speech and the Speech Education program at Metropolitan State University of Denver. He teaches History and Speech at Seattle Academy of Arts and Sciences, where he chairs the Department of Rhetoric and leads the school’s nationally recognized Speech and Debate program.

Under his leadership, Seattle Academy has become one of the state’s premier programs, capturing numerous WIAA State 3A Speech Team Championships. His students have gone on to win dozens of Individual State titles, achieve more than 100 State Finalist finishes, and earn national recognition, including a National Tournament of Champions victory in Expository Speaking. His coaching excellence has been honored by the National Speech and Debate Association with multiple “diamond” awards.

Underwood’s coaching career has been marked by significant recognition, including the Seattle Academy Building Our Future Award, Washington State Forensic Association Coach of the Year, National Association of Independent Schools Teacher of the Future honor, and the NFHS Coaching Award for Speech/Debate/Theatre for the Northwestern United States.

Beyond his own program, Underwood has worked tirelessly to strengthen Speech and Debate statewide. He has served in leadership roles with the WIAA, created the position of State Tournament Ombudsman, codified procedures for script and materials inspection, and coordinated efforts among district chairs to ensure fair and efficient competitions. He also founded a summer clinic for new coaches, mentoring the next generation of leaders—many of whom were once his own students.

Known for his commitment to both excellence and access, Joel Underwood has had a lasting impact on Speech and Debate in Washington, shaping students, coaches, and programs across the state.