Virginia State University is set to host a U.S. Presidential Debate on October 1, 2024, per a release by the institution. Virginia State will be the first HBCU to host a general election debate.

The announcement from the university said, “While VSU recognizes that a tremendous amount of preparation goes into hosting a national debate, it is extremely honored and excited to be a part of meaningful conversations on important issues that impact the nation. VSU welcomes the opportunity to uphold its reputation for advancing social justice and shaping future leaders. The university also hopes to leverage this opportunity to reinforce campus conversations, listen and learn about varied viewpoints, and further exhibit why we are a leading institution in higher education.”

Related NewsArticle continues below
Former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick attends Bay Golf Club against Atlanta Drive GC in the TGL semifinal match at SoFi Center on March 18, 2025, in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.
Michael Vick strengthens Norfolk State defense in transfer portal
North Carolina A&T ranks among the top HBCUs and UNC campuses according to Forbes’ “Best Colleges 2024” list.
North Carolina A&T track & field lands $200,000 deal
Florida A&M University Board of Trustees interviews Group Vice President of state government affairs for Charter Communications Marva Johnson,
Marva Johnson selected as next Florida A&M president despite protest

Virginia State President Dr. Makola M. Abdullah spoke directly about the debate being hosted at Virginia State, saying, “We are honored and grateful to have been chosen as a host for a 2024 Presidential Debate. This is a historic moment for our university and for HBCUs nationwide. Our university mantra is “Greater Happens Here,” and we look forward to welcoming the candidates, the Commission on Presidential Debates, and the entire nation to the GREATER at VSU.”

The debate hosted at Virginia State will be the second of the three scheduled debates between incumbent Democratic president Joe Biden and a Republican nominee who is presumed to be former president Donald Trump.

In 2019, Texas Southern University served as the site of the third Democratic Presidential Debate, which featured Joe Biden as a candidate as well as Howard University alumna and current Vice President Kamala Harris.