Hofstra Magazine

Drew Bennett

Senior, Political Science

Read More About the Debate

As a Hofstra senior and political science major, I have had the pleasure of witnessing the transformational impact the 2008 election has had on both our country and our school. The success of the third presidential debate at Hofstra and the series of academic events that preceded it validates the school’s evolution into a top national university.

Educate ’08 provided Hofstra students unparalleled access to the 2008 election at all its stages. In January Hofstra students packed two buses to head up to New Hampshire for the nation’s first primary of the presidential race. At the time a young, inspirational senator from Illinois was challenging a former first lady for the Democratic nomination, while a GOP “maverick” looked to gain his party’s nomination with a win in a state that supported him in 2000. Battling the New Hampshire winter proved to be more than worth it as we were able to see Senators Obama, Clinton, and McCain on the campaign trail and experience the madness of a primary firsthand. On Super Tuesday, students gathered to watch, debate, and discuss the fascinating primary battle for both parties’ nominations. Even still months away from the election, it was clear that campus was mobilized for political action and would prove it time and again throughout the campaign.

The Educate ’08 speaker series encouraged civic engagement and election excitement in the months leading up to the debate at Hofstra. Speakers such as David Gergen, Paul Begala, Richard Haass, Mario Cuomo, and Frank Luntz were among the countless national figures that addressed our campus community as history continued to unfold before our eyes. Hofstra is to be commended for emphasizing student involvement through small question and answer sessions prior to each lecture. On a personal note, the ability to meet many of my political heroes, specifically David Gergen, was a unique experience that I will remember for the rest of my life.

The immense success of the third debate cemented Hofstra’s image as a school with an engaged and intelligent student body. On the day of the debate, campus was packed with students, some carrying signs and others supporting policy initiatives. On the day of the debate, I had the fun experience of serving as a political commentator on WNYC’s Brian Lehrer Show and WRHU’s morning show. Later that night, I heard from my older brother, Ward, a former Hofstra student who called from Connecticut to share in the excitement for our school. It was a special night for everyone in the Hofstra community, and one that will be remembered for years to come.