On October 15, 2008, at 9pm, Hofstra University will make history as they host the third presidential debate at the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex. The debate, which will focus on the economy and domestic policy, will be moderated by Bob Schieffer, CBS News chief Washington correspondent and host of “Face the Nation”.
The debate shows how Hofstra has changed from a regional commuter school to a respected university. “You become a national university in every significant way, but nobody knows it,” said Hofstra president Stuart Rabinowitz. “How do you get people to realize that? … I could say that 100 times in a paid advertisement, but when an event that the entire world is focused on actually chooses you, that says something.”
With Hofstra at the beginning of a major fundraising drive to build a new medical school, hosting a presidential debate shows the institution can deliver on big promises, Rabinowitz said.
“It’s all about momentum,” he said. “People start paying attention, so when they hear about a medical school, they won’t think it’s a pipe dream.”
Other schools that have hosted debates, such as University of Richmond and Wake Forest University, have said that they saw approximately a 10-20% increase in applications and private donations following the debates .
Aside from increased exposure and recognition, the school and its student body have a wealth of other benefits by getting to see the debate from “behind the scenes”— from having a more politically engaged student body to the chance to interact with politicians and the media. For instance, MSNBC’s “Hardball with Chris Matthews” will be broadcasting live from campus for several days preceding the event.
The school has also hosted a lecture series called Educate ’08, which has helped created a buzz about campus for the debate and election. Being a student at Hofstra myself, I can confirm that there definitely is a “buzz” about the debate. In the few short weeks since my matriculation, I have heard about the debate, and what a wonderful experience it will be for the students, more times than I can now count. Promotional materials such as shirts and tote bags are even being created. (Personally, I’d like to know where to find those on campus).
It is important to engage young people in the democratic process and get them to vote. After all, this is their election, their time to focus on what issues will most effect them in the coming years, and their opportunity to make a change. Get involved in the process. Register to vote if you aren’t already. Make sure you seize your opportunity to make a change when Election Day rolls around. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”
