Dear Members of the University Community:
As some may have heard by now, President Barack Obama will visit the University of Washington campus on Thursday, Oct. 21, at noon for a rally in support of U.S. Sen. Patty Murray. This is, of course, a political event and not a University-sponsored visit. The event will take place in Hec Edmundson Pavilion. Rental of the facility and other associated costs are being paid by the Senator’s campaign. Details about the event and how to register to attend are available at http://www.pattymurray.com/home.
Having the president of the United States on our campus, even briefly, is a distinct honor. His visit will bring with it a certain amount of disruption of normal activities. Traffic around the city and campus will be impacted, especially in the area of Montlake Boulevard and the Pavilion. Security will also be tight. As you plan your activities for that day, please take into account the impact of this event on our surrounding community. Detailed information regarding street or building closures, changes to transit routes or other changes will be provided as those decisions are made in the coming days.
All UW offices will remain open as regularly scheduled on the day of the event. Classes, exams and other instructional activities will be held as usual. Staff wishing to attend the event must do so on their own time. If doing so involves taking leave from work for a portion of the day, approved leave will need to be arranged with your supervisor.
Political events may be held on campus under rules governing the use of University facilities. Such events give our community a chance to experience the political process firsthand and to hear from candidates running for office. The policy may be found at http://apps.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=478-136-030.
Sincerely,
Phyllis M. Wise
Interim President