NCCU prepares for Barack Obama

(10/30/07 -- DURHAM) (WTVD) -- North Carolina Central University plans to roll out the red carpet when Democratic presidential hopeful Senator Barack Obama arrives on campus. Thursday night Barack will hold his "Count Down for Change" rally outside at the O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium.

"We definitely want to support this candidate and show our support from students, faculty and staff," NCCU campus organizer Kian Brown said.

"The first time we did have a Black president it would mean a lot to me," Natalie Moore, NCCU Student Government, said.

An excited group of students dedicated their lunch hour to Obama, gathering in the Student Union, rolling out red, white and blue to make signs matching Obama's campaign logo.

Sha'niece Simmons, NCCU senior said, "I have no clue why he chose us, but I think we are so blessed to have him come here on campus."

Ironically, no one at the Student Union knows exactly why Obama is visiting Central.

"If I may say so myself, it sounds like a Central location," NCCU graduate student A.J. Donaldson said.

It's a central location that will see beefed up security Thursday night.

Tuesday afternoon Durham County Sheriff's deputies and university police met with Secret Service agents to map out logistics for what is expected to be a sold out event.

Obama's visit will mark his first public appearance and second time to N.C., following a private Chapel Hill fundraiser a few months ago near the heart of the John Edwards camp.

"Coming to quote-unquote 'John Edwards' backyard' -- I think it's an awesome move for him," Brown said.

Donaldson hopes Obama will inspire classmates to get involved. "If you don't like something, change it," he said. If you can't change it, change your attitude, And that's what Senator Barack Obama is doing ... he's changing people's attitude."

General admission to the rally is $25. Student admission is $15.

The rally, which is open to the public, begins 4 p.m. Thursday and the gates will open at 3 p.m.

ABC11.com will stream the speech live.

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