UW-Parkside intern attends first political rally

VP Biden shows off his new workout apparel.

By Samantha Savaglio

In an unexpected highlight of UW-Parkside's 2012 Election Experience, Vice Present Joe Biden and his group of diligent campaigners made an appearance at our campus last Friday. As the communications specialist intern at University Advancement, I was fortunate to receive a media pass, allowing me a unique perspective to such an acclaimed event in our university's history.  

The event, held in the De Simone Gymnasium, was the first political rally that I, and most of the students I spoke with, have ever attended. As I sat behind the television cameras, I viewed the gym as a host for community engagement. In that moment, I recognized the pride I have for my university.  

Upon greeting the attendees, Biden held up the new UW-Parkside sweatshirt he was given and joked, "Put me in coach, I'm ready to play!" I could not help but flash a smile at the sight.  

Familiar faces stood out among the swarm of 1,500 attendees. Students, faculty, staff, and prominent, recognizable members of the surrounding communities gathered side-by-side, cheering and chanting in unison.   

One of these students, Tim Lawler, a senior here, has been a Democrat for years and considered this "a once in a lifetime opportunity."

"I didn't like the long wait outside but it was worth it. I enjoyed his speech a lot," Lawler said.

Another UW-Parkside senior, Michael Anderson, expressed his excitement after the appearance.  

"[Biden] really knows how to get the crowding going." Anderson said. "It was awesome to be a part of it all."

Despite political partisanship, this event was a milestone for our campus community. Those who attended appreciated the efforts of this campaign's stop in our neck of the Petrifying Springs woods.

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ABOUT THIS STORY:

Story Status: Archived
Publish date: 10/30/2012

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