MERCED — The University of California, Merced, will welcome its latest high-profile figure to campus this fall, as former presidential advisor Karl Rove will speak and hold a book signing on campus Oct. 8.

Rove, who served as deputy chief of staff and senior advisor to President George W. Bush, will also take part in a question-and-answer session after his speech. He is the third speaker with ties to the White House to visit UC Merced, joining first lady Michelle Obama and former President Jimmy Carter.

The Rove event was coordinated by the College Republicans at UC Merced, a student group. Obama's appearance as the keynote speaker at UC Merced's 2009 commencement was similarly brought about after a student-led campaign. Carter visited in May to take part in the National Parks Institute seminar and receive the university's Spendlove Prize for 2010.

"We are very proud of our students for once again taking the initiative to bring to their campus someone they truly look up to and respect," said Steve Kang, UC Merced chancellor. "We have a strong diversity of cultures and viewpoints on our campus, and we welcome what should be a spirited appearance by Mr. Rove."

The event will begin at 6 p.m. in the Joseph Edward Gallo Recreation and Wellness Center on campus. Tickets will be distributed to 325 students during the fall semester on a first-come, first-served basis, and 400 tickets will be available to the general public at $35 each.

Ticket sales will help cover Rove's $25,000 speaking fee, with the remainder to be paid by the Associated Students of UC Merced, a student enterprise with elected student representatives. ASUCM maintains an annual budget of $420,000 that comes from student fees and goes toward student services, clubs and other activities.

The College Republicans will be fundraising to cover any additional costs associated with the event. There will be no cost to the university for this event.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.karlroveatucmerced.com/.