On-campus events allow community to get involved in Election Day

Students, faculty, staff and community members participated in a number of Election Day activities in the Kirkhof Center on November 8. 

The satellite clerk’s office, located in Kirkhof Center, was open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Prior to and on Election Day, the satellite office allowed residents of Allendale to register to vote, update their voter registration using their Allendale address and request an absentee ballot. 

The satellite clerk’s office comes out of a partnership among the Office of Student Life Community Service Learning Center, GVSU Student Senate and Allendale Township and is part of a broader effort to increase student voting.

The Office of Student Life hosted a "Popcorn at the Polls" event from noon-1:00 with free popcorn and pizza for students, while also allowing the opportunity for them to utilize the satellite office. The event included a performance by the Laker Marching Band and a visit from President Philomena V. Mantella and Vice President for Student Affairs Jenny Hall-Jones.

“I had to be sure my voice is counted,” said Hannah Thomas, a Detroit native and senior studying biomedical sciences.

Grand Valley is also a participant in the "ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge’s Presidential Commitment to Full Student Voter Participation." Grand Valley was given Gold Campus recognition following the 2020 Presidential election, with 70-79% voting rate.

Following Election Day, the Office of Student Life will continue hosting events that give students the opportunity to learn more about the election process. “Democracy 101: Political Preparation for the Holidays” will be held on November 19, and “Democracy 101: The Post-Election Timeline” will be held on December 7.