By Makenna Hall, Staff writer
Susquehanna will continue to encourage civil discourse on campus by welcoming former Democratic governor of Pennsylvania, Ed Rendell.
His topic will be “A Progressive View of America” and will take place in Stretansky Concert Hall on Wednesday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m.
President of SU College Democrats, senior Michael Kennedy said, “I personally think it’s an honor to have Rendell come to campus. I have a great deal of respect for the work he did for our state and I think he has a lot to say.”
Rendell began his 24 years of elected office serving two terms as District Attorney of Philadelphia from 1978 to 1985. He became the mayor of Philadelphia in 1992 to serve for two terms.
As mayor, Rendell was often praised for major changes he made to the city’s budget. The changes included eliminating a crippling deficit, balancing the city’s budget, and generating five consecutive budget surpluses, according to the Fels Institute of Government.
At the end of first term Rendell was also responsible for signing an executive order, allowing same sex couples in Philadelphia access to the same health benefits as everyone else.
Finally, Rendell became governor in 2003 until 2011. During his two terms he focused largely on improving and investing in the infrastructure of the state. In 2010, Rendell became a co-chair of Building America’s Future Educational Fund, a bipartisan group investing in infrastructure to improve the “nation’s prosperity and quality of life,” according to their official website.
According to Rendell’s official website, “He currently sits on several boards, supports multiple non-profit organizations and teaches government and politics courses at the University of Pennsylvania.”
According to the Vice President of Student Life, Susan Lantz, the level of security may differ from that of Ben Shapiro’s, but the same steps are being taken to evaluate the need: monitoring social media, contacting previous venues of Rendell’s speaking engagements, and working with his security.
There has not been any talk of protests or rallies occurring in response to Rendell’s visit.
After Shapiro’s visit a political group called Susquehanna Rising made Facebook posts attacking a student from the SU College Democrats for being an “instrument” in bringing Shapiro to campus.
Lantz said, “It was frustrating for me to read the posts as they were significantly antithetical to our community values… I hope students continue to value the concept of talking about different opinions and doing so in a respectful manner.”
Senior and president of the SU College Republicans, Jonah Winakor, said that it is incredibly important for students to hear Rendell’s point of view after listening to Shapiro.
“A dialogue must have two side, and I am looking forward to the informed discussion that wil occur during and after the event,” said Winakor.
First years Bryce Malik, Michael Mandigo and Jack Wagner all agree with Winakor on the political discourse aspect of the Susquehanna’s Conflict Series.
“Just learning the other side of things can help ease conflict,” said Malik.
Wagner felt that the intensity go the two speakers are not level. “Given that Rendell is far more moderate, perhaps centrist politician, I expect less controversy and far lower attendance.”
Mandigo said that the first time he heard that Rendell was speaking he had no idea who it was.
“I know that he represents the left view compared to Shapiro,” said Mandigo.