« In the best interests of our children … | Home | Children’s book on male penguins raising chick remains on list of most challenged books »

Belmont University hosts pre-Presidential Debate Symposiums

By Turner McCullough Jr. | September 23, 2008 |

As a lead-up to the launch of the 2008 Presidential Debates, Nashville’s Belmont University hosts a series of political discussions. Following is a listing of Belmont calendar events preceding the September 26 Presidential Debate.

Why Should We Vote?
Wed., September 24, 10 a.m., WHB 309
Complaints are everywhere heard bemoaning the low rate of voter turnout in the United States. Is our turnout rate really that low? Answering that question requires us to ask why, in the first place, we should vote. Join us as we ponder this with Dr. Nathan Griffith of the Department of Political Science.

Ethical Responsibility In an Election Year: Is the Media Helping or Hurting?
Fri., Sept. 26, 10 a.m., Frist Lecture Hall, fourth floor of Belmont’s Gordon E. Inman Center.
John L. Seigenthaler and son, John M. Seigenthaler, veteran journalists, will hold a debate dialogue on ethical responsibility during a presidential election. The Seigenthalers will share an ethical perspective on the media’s coverage of the presidential election and will engage in a dialogue on positive and negative examples of ethics and media coverage. They will also answer questions from the audience consisting of Belmont University students and the larger Middle Tennessee community. This event is free, but seating is limited. Registration is available by clicking here.

Why Kids Should Vote: Issues Affecting the Health and Education of Children
Fri., September 26, 1 p.m., Troutt Theater
This panel will explore key legislative developments that impact children’s health and education at both the state and federal levels. Panelists include advocates and practitioners from the fields of education, healthcare, and social work. Discussion topics will focus on how the 2008 elections might impact policies around children’s issues in 2009 and beyond.

Ole Miss Debate Watch Party
Fri., September 26, 8 p.m., Belmont Heights Baptist Church Sanctuary
Belmont students will gather to watch the first presidential debate on the big screen. After the debate, the Belmont College Republicans and Young Democrats will host a roundtable to discuss candidate performance and significant public policy questions. Faculty moderators will include debate coach Jason Stahl and political scientist Vaughn May.

Clarksville Debate Activity: On September 26, the Montgomery County Democratic Party and ClarksvilleForObama will host a Debate Watch Party, starting at 8 PM, at party headquarters, 534 Madison Street. The Debate Party is open to the public. For more information, call 931-552-5523 or 552-9076. Donations of food and soft drinks will be appreciated.

About Turner McCullough Jr.

US Army retiree, Native of Charleston, SC; enjoys photography- especially B/W photo studies and portraits, printing photos; travel, the seacoast, jazz/good food/wine with friends. Believes active citizenship is the only true form of citizenship and the responsibility of every citizen. "Men in authority will always think that criticism of their policies is dangerous. They will always equate their policies with patriotism, and find criticism subversive."

Email: wanion69185@mypacks.net