GVSU to host Michigan Student Voter Engagement Summit

Student voter engagement, education and turnout efforts are just a few of the topics on the agenda for more than 100 representatives from colleges and universities across the state when they come together May 10 at Grand Valley State University.

Grand Valley, in partnership with Campus Vote Project and the University of Michigan Ginsberg Center, will host the Michigan Student Voter Engagement Summit at the Pew Grand Rapids Campus. 

Representatives from more than 25 institutions are expected to attend, including Michigan Department of State, Ottawa County Clerk's Office, Campus Vote Project, Young Invincibles, All in Democracy Challenge, and Campus Election Engagement Project.

Keynote speakers are Shannon Garrett from SMG Strategies who will discuss "Elevating Student Voices," and Kristi Dougan from the Michigan Department of State who will discuss "Updates for Students from the MI Secretary of State."

"We will engage in a full day of shared learning, networking and strategizing around how to cultivate educated and active student leaders, who are poised and ready to engage in the democratic process in the voting booth and beyond," said Melissa Baker-Boosamra, associate director of Student Life for Civic Engagement and Assessment at Grand Valley. 

Michigan Student Voter Engagement Summit

May 10 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Eberhard Center, Pew Grand Rapids Campus

Register at gvsu.edu/service

Educational sessions will focus on voter engagement, education and turnout efforts; building coalitions; advocacy, student government; bridging the partisan gap on campuses; and student activism and organizing.

The event is being hosted by Grand Valley's Division of Student Services and Office of Student Life.

Sponsors include Delta College, Ferris State University, Macomb Community College, Michigan State University, Oakland University, Saginaw Valley State University, University of Michigan, Washtenaw Community College, and Western Michigan University.

For more information contact Melissa Baker-Boosamra at [email protected] or visit gvsu.edu/service.