Acorn

Former Secretary of Homeland Security Tom Ridge will kick off the 2006-2007 Forum Speaker Series on Nov. 9 at Drew University.

Ridge will speak about "The Future of American Security," according to a Drew Communications Department press release. The lecture will focus on "how countries, governments, organizations and businesses in the United States and around the world are threatened by international terrorism, and how they can best meet those threats," according to the press release. Ridge will also cover how "leadership, communication and new advances in technology can lead to a more aware, more secure populace, and a safer world."

Ridge has experience in these areas. He was appointed by President George W. Bush as the first secretary of the Department of Homeland Security following the Sept. 11 attacks. Ridge served as secretary until Feb. 1, 2005.

Before his tenure as secretary of Homeland Security, Ridge served six terms in the House of Representatives and two terms as governor of Pennsylvania, and was the first assistant to the president on Homeland Security, according to the press release. Ridge is also a decorated Vietnam War veteran. He earned the Bronze Star for Valor, the Combat Infantry Badge and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry, according to the press release.

 In addition to speaking in the Forum, Ridge may lecture in several Drew classes.

"The Administration is trying to have him guest lecture in Drew classes in addition to his speech," Chief Communications Officer David Muha said. "According to Ridge's office, he wants to do that."

If Ridge speaks in classes, it would not be the first time a politician did so at Drew. Last year, former Vice President and presidential hopeful Al Gore hosted two lectures, one for political science and history majors and minors, and another for biology majors and minors. The lectures were part of Gore's appearance for the Thomas H. Kean Visiting Lectureship, according to the April 7, 2006 issue of The Acorn.

Ridge will speak in the Forum on Nov. 9 at 8 p.m. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Monday for $22. As of press time, the discounted price for Drew student, faculty and staff tickets was not available.

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