As 2008 presidential campaigns come to IU, some administrators are raising questions about the impact of the school’s logo appearing alongside candidates and speakers.
The IU logo in question, the IU trident, first raised concern when it appeared in newspaper photos behind former President Bill Clinton, who recently spoke on campus on behalf of Sen. Hillary Clinton, said IU Chancellor Ken Gros Louis.
Since the appearance, it has appeared at other events, including a Dave Matthews concert sponsored by presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama and during Obama’s appearance at the women’s Little 500 race Friday.
“I think it’s just confusing to the public for a political candidate making a speech with an IU logo behind him or her, because it gives the impression that the University is supporting the candidate,” Gros Louis said.
Gros Louis said he does not believe the logo should appear, if possible, at any political events.
“Indiana University cannot endorse any candidates, and never would, but it is our policy to welcome candidates and their representatives to the campus because we believe it is good for the students to have access to the candidates and discussions of the issues, so all campaigns are welcome,” IU spokesman Larry MacIntyre said.

