If he wanted to, former Secretary of State Colin Powell probably could be president.
Much like Sen. John McCain, the military veteran may be one of the most respected political figures on both sides of the aisle. Even with criticism for his role in the lead up to the Iraqi War, Powell has inspired respect in the public eye.
With anti-war sentiments at an all-time high, Powell's insights will be especially welcome when he speaks as part of the 19th annual Distinguished Speaker Series on Wednesday at 8 p.m. in Alumni Arena.
This year's distinguished speaker is an all known personality whose work and contributions to our country had made a great impact on Americans and people throughout the world.
On Jan. 20, 2001, after being collectively confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Powell was sworn in as the 65th Secretary of State, making him the first African-American ever to hold that office.
As a soldier in the United Stated Army for 35 years, Powell held a variety of command and staff positions and rose to the rank of four-star general.
Powell is also chairman of America's Promise, which is an organization that encourages Americans to broaden their investment in the youth, and is dedicated in making America's youth a national priority.
The distinguished speaker's accomplishments have many UB students excited to attend the Wednesday lecture. SA offered free tickets to students last week, but those supplies have ran out before most students even knew they were available.
"Colin Powell is a very distinguished public speaker, and I admire him because of the awards he was given like the President Citizens medal and the Secretary of State Distinguished Medal," said Evelin Kotowski, a sophomore pre med major.
To some members of the UB community, Powell is a man of great distinction, uncanny intelligence and versatility.
"I believe Colin Powell is a very distinguished personality because of his intelligence and thrive to serve our country. He is ambitious to promote world peace and joining nations in the fight of terrorism, on behalf of our government. He has made himself a very important personality while other politicians have failed to," said Brian Kabuye, a computer engineering major.
Certain students are not interested in attending the lecture on Wednesday.
"It is admirable that he was in the military and it is also admirable that, as a black man, he has broken many boundaries and made it to the top of his distinction," said Patrick Shaver, a sophomore undecided major. "However, if you want a public speaker that will have an impact on college level students, hire Jon Stewart. He doesn't have the credentials, but he has a brain and is not afraid to take a stance on politics."
Martin Mazurkiewicz, a sophomore undecided major, said he would prefer an artist rather than a politician. In past years, politicians have played a prominent role in the series, as Bill Clinton came to UB in 2002.
"I am probably not going to go see him speak because I don't have the money for it and I really don't care to see him speak. I would rather have Chris Martin, the lead singer of Coldplay, come to UB and speak because I like his music and it would be influential," he said.
Quardean Lewis-Allen, a freshman architecture major said that he doesn't want to spend the time listening to the lecture.
"Sure, Colin Powell is a very influential black figure that many of us would admire, but you know I would rather go see someone that wasn't a teacher because I have lecture classes all week and I don't want to sit around and listen to Mr. Powell for two hours talking about a bunch of political stuff I already know," he said.
Tickets will be available for students at a discounted rate of $18 to $38. General admission prices range from $22 to $44.
Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Messina, from the RMBERS' Instagram page
