Raise your voice and vote.

The recent national political conventions and increased attention on the upcoming elections are important reminders of our privileges and obligations as American citizens. I urge you to vote! Take this opportunity to register your opinion, letting those who serve or would serve know what you think and what you expect.

This season also underscores the important work that higher education does in preparing an educated, engaged electorate. Colleges and universities take their responsibility seriously, working to energize their students to become informed citizens, and through good actions, to influence the future.

Federal legislation enacted in 1998 requires all postsecondary institutions to make a good faith effort to distribute voter registration forms to each student who attends classes on campus. In New York State, many independent colleges and universities go further to engage their communities – hosting political debates, inviting local candidates to speak, or sponsoring mock elections.

Similar efforts across the country in recent years have led to impressive results: nine in 10 (87%) college students registered to vote in 2000. And eight in 10 (78%) cast their ballots in the last presidential election.

Use the links that follow to read about other ways the Independent Sector of higher education in New York State is reaching out to connect with communities locally and globally. Our small presses and literary journals deliver a wealth of knowledge; student-athletes mentor kids; campuses commit to alternative energy; cancer research promises to save lives; and young people are being encouraged to begin thinking like budding scientists.

In every story, the work of those on campus has connections to the greater world. The act of voting is the same. Every election is important. Every vote counts. No one among us should squander the chance to let his or her voice be heard.

 


Abraham M. Lackman
President, Commission on Independent
Colleges and Universities