On Oct. 3, 2012, millions of people will turn their attention to the University of Denver as DU hosts a U.S. presidential debate in advance of the November general election.
We’re one of only three schools nationwide selected to host a presidential debate — the first in Colorado’s history. To say that we’re excited is an understatement.
DU is planning a number of educational programs and events in the months leading up to the debate. One of the first will be on Feb. 2, when the Bridges to the Future 2011-12 lecture series — “Undercurrents of the 2012 Election” — continues with Anne-Marie Slaughter, former director of policy planning for the U.S. State Department (learn more and RSVP at www.du.edu/bridges). During fall quarter, the lecture series brought former White House Chief of Staff Erskine Bowles to campus.
The University is committed to helping students, alumni and the community learn about and engage in the political process, and we’ll be sure to keep you posted about all of the debate activities. Start by visiting www.du.edu/debate2012 to learn more.
Civic engagement and leading through action are central to DU’s mission, and our faculty, students and alumni embody that spirit of “DU-ing.”
In this issue, international studies Professor George DeMartino discusses the role of economists in causing America’s Great Recession. DU alumnus Mike Enzi, a Republican senator from Wyoming, imparts lessons on bipartisanship, while alumnus Fred Karger discusses his run for the Republican presidential nomination. And DU’s Peace Corps alumni share stories of service in action.
I hope you’ll attend some of the upcoming debate events (or participate online). And please share your own stories of engagement and action. What are you doing to effect change in your corner of the world? Email us at du-magazine@du.edu.