April 26, 2024

Election Season Highlights UMW Students’ Commitment to Democracy

Student Carl Horkan proudly sported a first-time voter sticker during UMW’s Day on Democracy. Paige Shiplett photo.

Student Carl Horkan proudly sported a first-time voter sticker during UMW’s Day on Democracy. Paige Shiplett photo.

Students at the University of Mary Washington know participation in our democracy is a process, not just something that happens on one Tuesday in November.

All fall, they’ve encouraged one another in thoughtful consideration of social and political issues, voter registration, early voting and other meaningful participation in how Americans govern ourselves. So by Election Day, Nov. 8, 2022, they were ready to celebrate.

They did it in a big way, as UMW held its third annual Day on Democracy to support student engagement in society and politics. The event combined volunteer opportunities, a bookmobile visit, information-sharing and games on Campus Walk, plus an election night watch party. A student roundtable featured representatives of several clubs and groups. And Melissa Martinez, an assistant professor in the Department of Political Science and International Affairs, spoke about “Civic Engagement and Human Rights.” Read more.