For Release: April 4, 2011

Contact:  Jim Berscheidt

University of Denver among 12 universities vying for 2012 Presidential Debate

Event would bring around 3,000 journalists to campus

 

DENVER – The University of Denver (DU) has submitted an application to host a presidential or vice presidential debate in fall 2012. It marks the first time that DU has competed for one of the nationally-televised events that occur just before the November election.

 

On Friday, April 1, the Commission on Presidential Debates (www.debates.org) announced that 12 universities submitted an application prior to the March 31 deadline. The Commission is expected to announce which locations were chosen in fall 2011.

 

“DU’s commitment to addressing the great issues of the day and serving the public good make this a perfect fit for the University, the City of Denver, and the State of Colorado,” says Jim Berscheidt, interim vice chancellor of University Communications. “Following the successful 2008 Democratic National Convention, it’s appropriate that Denver again host an event of national significance, especially given the capacity and quality of the University’s venues.”

 

The University proposes hosting the debate in Magness Arena in the Daniel L. Ritchie Center for Sports and Wellness. A media filing center and offices for Commission staff will be located elsewhere on campus.

 

The following universities also have submitted an application:

 

·      Belmont University (Nashville, Tenn.)

·      Centre College (Danville, Ky.)

·      Dominican University of California (San Rafael, Calif.)

·      Eastern Kentucky University (Richmond, Ky)

·      Hofstra University (Hempstead, N.Y.)

·      Indiana University (Bloomington, Ind.)

·      Lynn University (Boca Raton, Fla.)

·      Saint Mary's College of California (Moraga, Calif.)

·      The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey (Pomona, N.J.)

·      Wake Forest University (Winston-Salem, N.C.)

·      Washington University in St. Louis (St. Louis, Mo.)

 

 

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The University of Denver is committed to improving the human condition and engaging students and faculty in tackling the major issues of our day. DU ranks among the top 100 national universities in the U.S. For additional information, go to www.du.edu/newsroom.