In the style of a traditional, small-town political rally, the 2010 Candidates’ Picnic attracted approximately 1,100 of Vanderbilt employees, students and friends to Olin Lawn on Sept. 16.
Some 3,100 hot dogs along with chips, home-made cookies and ice cream sandwiches were served while 28 candidates or their representatives in races ranging from governor to the state legislature worked the crowd and offered campaign information at designated tables. Candidates also stood on a soapbox in Vanderbilt’s “public square” to briefly introduce themselves to the audience, while workers for the Davidson County Election Commission offered voter registration.
Chancellor Nicholas S. Zeppos emphasized the importance of civic participation in the electoral process during his welcoming remarks to the crowd. A Dixieland Jazz band contributed to the festive atmosphere of the event, which was sponsored by the Office of Community, Neighborhood and Government Relations.
(Note: Our apologies for the poor sound quality.)
Contact: Ann Marie Deer Owens (615) 322-NEWS
annmarie.owens@vanderbilt.edu