Illinois State University recognized for voter engagement action plan

Illinois State University has earned ALL IN's Highly Established Action Plan Seal for the 2024 election cycle action plan. The University is one of 192 institutions that has earned this recognition so far.

The ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge is a non-partisan initiative aimed at increasing student democratic participation on college and university campuses. ALL IN awards this recognition to campuses leading the way with innovative strategies to increase democratic engagement on their campus.

"We are proud to receive this national recognition, which reflects the University's commitment to our core value of civic engagement. Congratulations to all who worked on this plan," said Illinois State University President Aondover Tarhule. "I'm honored to join other college and university leaders who have signed the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, which proclaims our support for non-partisan civic education in support of voter registration and turnout."

The Center for Civic Engagement (CCE) at Illinois State leads voter engagement efforts across campus along with the Voter Engagement Coalition. The CCE crafted the award-winning plan with the input of faculty, staff, and community partners and includes several strategies to promote voter registration, education, and participation.

"I am grateful that ALL IN has recognized Illinois State University as a campus committed to educating students to be informed, engaged, and responsible participants in the democratic process," said Dr. Katy Strzepek, CCE director. "Voter Engagement Coalition members have put considerable time and thought into crafting resources, promoting events, delivering presentations, and encouraging student voter turnout. This recognition inspires the Redbird community to keep advancing our voter engagement."

Illinois State University has been designated as an official Voter Friendly Campus since 2021 and was recognized by ALL IN as one of the most engaged campuses for college student voting in 2022. As Illinois State University prepares to roll out its new action plan, the campus community is set to make a Redbird impact in the 2024 elections.

The ALL IN Action Plan Seal not only honors Illinois State University's current efforts but also sets the stage for continued advancements in student civic participation. By recognizing the University and other established institutions as a model, the initiative aims to inspire other colleges and universities to implement similar strategies, promoting a more civically engaged and informed electorate.

Find out more about voter engagement at Illinois State at the Center for Civic Engagement.