On behalf of our entire University of Denver community, I’d like to thank the people, public agencies and business entities of Colorado for helping us host the state’s first presidential debate.

Debates are a critical part of the democratic decision-making process in our country.

They offer one of the best ways for voters to evaluate candidates for the highest office in the nation.
At the University of Denver, we took great pride in hosting this debate and giving our students a firsthand experience of the rigors and intricacies of the electoral process.

In the process, we fostered a civil exchange of ideas and views throughout our community, all for the public good, living up to the vision of our great University.

This massive effort involved the work of many students, faculty and staff members.

In addition, we had great collaboration and cooperation with the city, the state, the region’s transit and public safety agencies, with utility companies and media outlets, with our nearby neighbors, and with alumni and generous sponsors.

I especially want to thank our students for their enthusiasm, support and engagement in this great community effort.

Again, thank you for your part in making this a day to remember for the University of Denver. Together, we made history.

Coombe is the Chancellor of DU. He has previously served as Provost and Chair of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, among other positions since joining the faculty in 1981. He was chosen as Chancellor in 2005.