WSU Statement Regarding Monday’s Announcement by the Commission on Presidential Debates:

While we are disappointed at not being selected as a site for a 2008 presidential debate, all of us at Washington State University are grateful for the genuine excitement and outpouring of support from the Pacific Northwest government and corporate sectors in our efforts to be considered as a possible debate site and the opportunity it would have provided to showcase WSU and our region on a national and international stage. We are also thankful for the close collaboration we enjoyed with the business and community leaders of Spokane as this process went forward.  From our very first meeting, there was a great spirit of cooperation around the table as we strove for a common goal. We are certain those strong relationships will benefit the university, Spokane and the region as we work together to enhance the role WSU plays in the educational, economic and social vibrancy of Spokane and the entire Northwest.

Michael J. Tate,
Vice President, Division of Student Affairs, Equity and Diversity