ST. LOUIS (AP) – Washington University in St. Louis officials say the experience and national attention are benefits of hosting a presidential debate despite the high financial costs.
The university is set to host presidential candidates Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump for the debate on Oct. 9. This will be Washington University’s fifth time hosting a debate. The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the total cost of the event, including supplies, security, technology and labor, is about $5 million.
Washington University debate chairman Steve Givens says the true lasting value of hosting the event comes from the student and faculty experience. Student groups will host debate-themed events, art exhibits and more.
Givens also says the university’s name has been mentioned numerous times since the end of the first debate, giving the school invaluable attention.
