Givens is serving as the chairman of the Univerity’s Presidential Debate Steering Committe. He is also the assistant to Chancellor Mark S. Wrighton. In that role, Givens serves as a liaison to internal and external groups that include faculty, staff, students, alumni, parents and community leaders. He deals with a wide range of concerns and issues, including complaint resolution, and is an ex officio member of the University Council. He handles a variety of special projects assigned by the chancellor.
Givens has recently been quoted in issues concerning the debate:
Debate venue takes shape at Washington University
Monday, October 4, 2004 – St. Louis Post-Dispatch
“Hosting the debates never had been about long-term publicity or economic benefits. It’s about the students.”
Washington University prepares for presidential debate
Thursday, September 30, 2004 – Kansas City Star
“There’s always a lot of uncertainty, and we know the next week will be crazy,” said Steve Givens, chairman of the school’s presidential debate steering committee. But, he added, “We know we can do it because we’ve done it before.”
Schools Attempt to Spark More Political Interest
Thursday, September. 23, 2004 – Miami Herald
”That’s why we do this — it creates a buzz on campus.”
Planners seek quick decision regarding WU debate
Wednesday, September 15, 2004 – St. Louis Post-Dispatch
“We’ve already spent at least $1.25 million on preparing the university, on media materials and on furnishings for the offices in the athletic complex. Sure, we’d be disappointed if it didn’t happen. But we feel confident, and that’s just the way we’re approaching it. So we’re just moving straight ahead.”