20 April 2009

Obama's first 100 days - public lecture in Dundee

The first 100 days of a US Presidency has always been viewed as a key milestone, and one of America’s most distinguished journalists and political commentators will discuss Barack Obama’s first few months in power at the University of Dundee this weekend.

Political heavyweight Charlie Cook has written for almost every publication of note in America, provides analysis for a variety of media outlets, and publishes his own newsletter, The Cook Political Report.

He will deliver his talk, which will be jointly hosted by the University’s Graduates’ Council Discovery lecture and its hugely successful Saturday Evening Lecture Series

Cook is widely regarded as one of the nation's leading authorities on elections and political trends. His lecture will assess the US Presidential election campaign, the immediate effects of the new President’s first 100 days in office, and the likely longer-term impact of an Obama Presidency on the United States and the rest of the world.

The Saturday Evening Lecture Series, now in its 85th year, has proved as popular as ever. Around 8000 people have requested tickets for lectures delivered by a varied selection of guests who have talked on subjects ranging from media scare stories to the wilderness of Britain and Ireland.

The Discovery Lecture is an annual event hosted by the University’s Graduates Council, an organisation representing the 50,000 plus alumni around the world.

Director of External Relations, Joan Concannon, said the fact that Charlie Cook had chosen Dundee as the only location in which to speak publicly during his visit to the UK represented a real coup for the University.

'We are absolutely delighted to have such a renowned and respected commentator delivering this year’s Saturday Evening and Discovery Lecture. Charlie Cook is one of the foremost analysts of the US political scene and he will provide a unique insight into the Barack Obama phenomenon.'

'The University regards its delivery of an interesting and diverse free public programme of lectures as of vital importance, and we are delighted to be joining forces with our Graduates Council to host such an inspiring speaker on such an important topic.'

The lecture takes place in the Dalhousie Building, Old Hawkhill, at 6 pm on Saturday. Admission is free and all are welcome. Tickets are available from the Tower Building reception at the University, the Borders book store at Gallagher Retail Park in Dundee, and though the University’s online store - www.buyat.dundee.ac.uk.

Anyone seeking further information should contact the Events office at the University - tel 01382 388046.

For media enquiries contact:
Grant Hill
Press Officer
University of Dundee
Nethergate Dundee, DD1 4HN
TEL: 01382 384768
E-MAIL: g.hill@dundee.ac.uk