Ross Perot, Arkansas Gov. Bill Clinton and President George Bush square off in the first presidential debate, which was held at the Washington University Field House.

The presidents visit the campus

Four presidents have appeared on this campus, either before, during, or after their term of office, according to University archivist Carole Prietto. And only one man did so--twice--while in office.

William Howard Taft

Former president William Howard Taft appeared at Washington University, April 4, 5,and 6, 1916. He gave two addresses to students in the School of Law and gave a public address in Graham Chapel.

George Bush

President George Bush appeared at Washington University, February 13, 1989. He gave a public address in the Field House on volunteerism. He is the only president to speak at W.U. while in office, and he did so twice: in 1989 and again as a participant in the 1992 debate. Bush's third appearance at W.U. was in October 1999, when he was the principal speaker at Founders Day.

Jimmy Carter

Former President Jimmy Carter appeared at W.U., February 28, 1991. He gave a public address in the Field House, as part of the Assembly Series: "Social Responsibility: Caring About Moral and Ethical Issues".

Bill Clinton

President Bill Clinton was then governor of Arkansas when he debated here on October 11, 1992. It was the first presidential debate that year, unique in that it was thealso first televised debate to feature three participants.