Coral Gables, FL – One hundred University of Miami students will attend tonight’s first presidential debate on campus. “These ‘Lucky 100’ will be able to experience democracy up close this evening,” said University of Miami President Donna E. Shalala. “I’m thrilled that such a large cross-section of our student population will attend in person. This election is, after all, about their future.”

The University of Miami created a contest in which all students were eligible to submit a 250-word essay entitled “Democracy in Action: Make Your Vote Count.” The winning essays were selected by a team of UM faculty. Students were notified last night they would be attending the debate.

The breakdown of the 686 student submissions is as follows:

100 freshmen
127 sophomores
126 juniors
128 seniors
92 graduate students
23 Medical
90 Law

To speak to some of the students, contact UM Media Relations at 305-689-5662/5663 or
305-312-1743 (pager

As the nation prepares for the Presidential elections in Fall 2004, the University of Miami, which is host to the first Presidential debate on September 30, 2004, will continue to present events that explore locally oriented issues of national importance. The Presidential Debate at the University of Miami is generously underwritten by the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida.

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The University of Miami’s mission is to educate and nurture students, to create knowledge, and to provide service to our community and beyond. Committed to excellence and proud of the diversity of our University family, we strive to develop future leaders of our nation and the world.

Media Contact:
UM Media Relations
305-689-5662/5663
305-312-1743 (pager)