Ivy Tech Indianapolis recently celebrated Constitution Day by hosting the Raise Your Voice and Vote event, bringing together the Student Life Office, Legal Studies Department, Department of Student Services, and esteemed partners including the Indiana ACLU, League of Women Voters, and the Marion County Election Board. Ivy Tech staff members also volunteered their time to assist with voter registration, helping ensure that future voters were ready to participate in the upcoming election.
Students had the opportunity to register to vote, verify their voter registration, and learn how to use voting machines. This hands-on experience was designed to make the voting process more approachable, especially for first-time voters.
Anthony Halmon, director of Student Life, emphasized the importance of involving students in the democratic process, stating, “Engaging students in voting is crucial to ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard. We want to make sure our students feel empowered and understand that their participation shapes the future of our community. By offering them the tools and education needed to vote, we’re fostering a generation that’s informed, engaged, and ready to contribute.”
Brent Stinson, deputy director of elections for Marion County, shared his thoughts on the significance of the event. He noted that it plays a critical role in ensuring that students are registered to vote and that their information is up to date.
"Events like this are important to make sure people are registered to vote and correctly registered so they can voice their opinion to their government," Stinson explained. "We also have voting machines here today so students can understand the process and not feel intimidated when casting their ballots on Election Day."
"We also have voting machines here today so students can understand the process and not feel intimidated when casting their ballots on Election Day."
– Brent Stinson, deputy director of elections for Marion County
Stinson also highlighted key details about the upcoming election. Voters in Marion County will have 186 voting sites to choose from on Election Day, giving them flexibility in selecting a location that works best for them. “You’re no longer tied to a specific site in your neighborhood,” he added. “It’s convenient, easy to vote, but with a large ballot expected this election, we encourage voters to give themselves plenty of time to cast their ballots and make sure they’re familiar with the contests.”
This collaboration between Ivy Tech Indy, civic organizations, and staff volunteers underscores the college’s commitment to fostering an engaged, informed, and active student body. The Raise Your Voice and Vote event not only educated students on the mechanics of voting but also emphasized the importance of being active participants in democracy.
You can register to vote and check your voter registration status using the Indiana Voters Portal here: http://www.indianavoters.com
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
