JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- The state of Florida is bracing for its turn to head to the polls for the Republican primary. To set the stage, a debate is being held right here in Jacksonville. UNF will play host and its something college leaders say will help really put their school on the map.
That national spotlight can be blinding. But educators at the University of North Florida say--"Bring it on."
That means folks near and far will get a look into what the Jacksonville institution is all about.
"CNN tells us they expect about 4.1 million people to watch the debate itself," said UNF Spokeswoman Sharon Aston. "That doesn't take into consideration CNN International, which will be broadcasting, CNN Espanol, my understanding last time I talked to CNN that CNN Japan could possibly be covering it."
Ashton knows people across the country likely haven't heard of UNF. And this is their chance to show off and recruit future students from all over.
"People in other parts of the country say University of North what? But all of a sudden they see some coverage, they watch the CNN debate, perhaps read their newspaper the next day and see it reiterated, they see some photos of our beautiful campus, it's gotta have a long term impact," Ashton said.
She adds current students will also benefit. Many of them will be first time voters in this presidential election and this gives them a unique look into the process. Educators are also hoping hosting the debate will spark more interest in politics.
"We really are trying not to only host the debate but make this a unique experience for our students as well."
