Bay Path Votes: Students prepare to cast ballots

Bay Path students will cast their votes tomorrow having had the chance to participate in a series of conversations and events focused on civic engagement and voter information. “We felt that for our students, our undergraduates especially, many of whom are participating in their first election, it was important to create a safe space for them to ask questions, share thoughts, and get an understanding of the election process and the power of their vote,” said Ramona East, Director of Student Life and Engagement, who along with Dinah Moore, Bay Path’s Dean of Students and Engagement developed the schedule of election programming.

Throughout the semester, students have had the opportunity to attend debate watching parties, discuss the origins and impact of the electoral college, register to vote, and speak with each other about the issues they’ll be prioritizing as they head to the polls.

“It’s an exciting and nerve-wracking election,” said Alyssa Colangelo, a 20-year-old education major from Waterbury, Connecticut who helped register students and who will be voting in her first election. “This is the first year that I’ve watched the debates and read articles, and I wish I’d registered to vote at 18, rather than waiting for the first presidential election.”

“The biggest thing I’m thinking about is protecting human and reproductive rights,” added Bela Rynaski, 20, from Windsor, CT. “It’s so important for my age group to vote and for our voices to be heard, since these policies are going to affect us for longer”

Bay Path plans to continue the conversation while inspiring students to stay motivated to make change and exert impact throughout their lives. Next Wednesday, the University will host a fireside chat, “Being the Change You Wish to See,” with local leaders who will discuss strategies for building a more inclusive world by encouraging students to begin with themselves and their communities.

“Our objective in putting together these events is really to provide students with the tools they need to be informed and civically engaged throughout their lives,” stated East. “This is a big election, but our programming, like our involvement, doesn’t end on election day.”