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ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge

Bronze Campus

McKendree University has a long history and commitment to civic engagement and service learning. In unison with the University’s strategic plan, we seek not only to provide an excellent academic experience, but also to offer a wide variety of intellectual opportunities beyond the classroom by developing a forum for presentations and discussions about current issues and events.

To promote knowledge and understanding among all members of the McKendree community about issues of diversity, inclusion, social justice and equality, a campus Social Justice and Equity Committee was established in 2014 to continue our never-ending efforts. We have partnered with Illinois Campus Compact to educate students about civic and social responsibility, participated in National Voter Registration Day, and have actively celebrated Constitution Day with voter registration and fun activities for our students. In addition, numerous students, faculty, and staff members have attended the annual Federation of Independent Illinois Colleges and Universities student lobby day at the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield.

In 2016, a university committee implemented a plan to increase informed voter participation on campus as part of the ALL IN Challenge. It held voter registration drives and presidential debate watch parties, and hosted journalist-author, Sarah Kendzior to discuss the state of U.S. politics. On Constitution Day in September, students registered to vote, got information about absentee voting, and picked up free copies of "The U.S. Constitution and Fascinating Facts About It." We received a bronze seal from the ALL In Challenge for our efforts to increase college student voting turnout during the 2016 election. McKendree was among 79 institutions nationally to achieve the distinction of 50-59% student voter participation on campus.

"McKendree is proud to recieve this national recognition for our efforts," said Dr. Christine Bahr, provost. "Our faculty, staff, administrators and students are committed to working together to reduce apathy, increase engagement, and graduate civic-minded students."

McKendree joined the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge to improve democratic engagement, increase student voter participation rates, and graduate students with a lifelong commitment to being informed and active citizens.

Through our “Bearcats Vote” campaign, we will host several civic engagement activities this Fall to encourage students to use their voices in the electoral process. 

Voter Registration Table and Group

 

Tuesday, October 30: "I'm Registered To Vote, Now What?

Join us in Holman Library from 1-5 PM for pizza, cookies, and drinks! You can see sample ballots before election day, check your polling place, and get information about the candidates and issues. Enter to win an Amazon gift card! Special thanks to our friends at BallotReady for great resources.

 

 

Tuesday, November 6 - ELECTION DAY, All Day - GET OUT AND VOTE!

Stop by the Hett to cast your ballot, and stay for our PARTY AT THE POLL!

  • Free food
  • Tie-dye and crafts
  • Music
  • Games
  • Ballot Bingo
  • Trivia
  • Coloring

...and more!

 

Voter resources:

Turbovote.org
Vote.org
Bestcolleges.com/resources/voting-by-state
Rockthevote.com

More Information About the ALL IN Democracy Challenge:

http://www.allinchallenge.org/

http://www.allinchallenge.org/wp-content/uploads/McKendree-University-Action-Plan-2018.pdf

Vote on Nov. 6th, 2018!