Kennedy pays first visit to universityBy Eric Dennison

Sen. Ted Kennedy (D-Mass.) addressed students, faculty and staff on Monday morning at U of L’s Miller Information Technology Center on the Belknap Campus.

Kennedy was an invited guest of the McConnell Center. The center’s director, Gary Gregg; Provost Shirley Willinghanz; and Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) were all on hand to introduce Kennedy. U of L President James Ramsey was out of town and unable to attend.

Kennedy’s speech covered many hot topics including the war in Iraq, globalization, the rising cost of higher education, health care and immigration.

McConnell opened the event by introducing his colleague, giving him a warm reception by quoting the accomplishments of Kennedy.

Kennedy has served in the senate for 44 years and is known for fighting for Civil Rights and being a compassionate, caring politician.

Kennedy received a standing ovation when he stepped up to the podium. When the audience quieted, Kennedy’s main focus delved into the importance of public service. " America has been blessed to have men who have responded to the nation’s call," Kennedy said.

Kennedy spoke of a "call of service" for the young and said, "We don’t make the world we live in; but we do have a chance to change it. "

Kennedy’s charm shined through as he warmed the audience with his quips about his family, lavished attention on the Commonwealth of Kentucky and reminisced about stories of famous political struggles that he had fought.

After his speech Kennedy fielded questions from audience members about Arctic oil drilling, the "No Child Left Behind" act, 9/11 and immigration. Kennedy called for a coming together of minds to solve these issues: He explained that no one person has all the answers and it is up to people to put aside their differences and come together to make viable solutions.

The event took place as part of the McConnell Center’s drive to bring in famous political figures. The center has focused on a lecture series that has included former U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. The Center has been in operation for more than 15 years.

Cardinal News Editor Sasha Williams contributed to this story.