As the country geared up for another election cycle, Colorado Mesa University (CMU) introduced the Mav the Vote Engagement Series—a comprehensive series of election-oriented events aimed at promoting civil discourse, encouraging civic participation and embodying the values of a Human Scale University.
The Mav the Vote Engagement Series fostered an open, respectful environment that encouraged all voices to be heard. Highlights included bipartisan debate watch parties led by student organizers, as well as nonpartisan voter registration drives. Forums provided a space for Republicans, Democrats and Independents alike to share perspectives and ideas. Many of the events welcomed community members, building connections and inspiring thoughtful dialogue that extended beyond campus.
The series launched with a presentation on the Dignity Index by CMU President John Marshall and Trustee Alison Griffin, highlighting the importance of respect and civil dialogue in a divided political landscape. The Dignity Index became a foundation of the series, woven into several Mav the Vote discussions as a framework for thoughtful and respectful political conversations.
In addition to these efforts, a variety of panel discussions and events encouraged students to think critically about current issues. Topics included social media’s role in politics, ideological influence and the unique challenges college students face in today’s political climate. One panel included a screening of XCLD: The Story of Cancel Culture, directed by Ferne Pearlstein, followed by a discussion with Pearlstein, President Marshall and comedian Judy Gold.
Another standout panel, An Evening with Governors, featured former Colorado Governors Bill Owens (Republican, 1999-2007) and Bill Ritter (Democrat, 2007-2011), moderated by President Marshall. Their discussion on the polarized political climate and the path to greater civil discourse demonstrated the potential for finding common ground, even in politically diverse spaces.
To encourage active participation, CMU facilitated multiple on-campus voter registration drives, supported by the Mesa County League of Women Voters, the CMU Political Science Club and Alpha Chi. The Mesa County Clerk’s Office and local party representatives also staffed tables on campus to ensure students had easy access to registration resources on National Voter Registration Day.
CMU addressed election security through a presentation by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and organized a field trip to the Mesa County Clerk’s Office. There, students observed security measures firsthand, gaining insight into the processes that safeguard vote integrity.
By creating an environment where every voice is heard and respected during election season, the series reflected CMU’s commitment to teaching students how to think, not what to believe. The Mav the Vote Engagement Series aligned with several of the university’s core values, including dignity and curiosity, to ensure students are informed, engaged and prepared to take an active role in shaping their communities well beyond their college years.
Secure 24-hour campus ballot drop box:
- Colorado Mesa University (Robinson Theatre) - 1299 N 12th St, Grand Junction
Vote on campus:
Monday, November 4, 2024, 8am-5pm
- Colorado Mesa University - 1455 N 12th St - University Center, Room 213
- CMU Tech – 2520 Blichmann Ave - Building B, Room 171
Tuesday, November 5, 2024, 7am-7pm
- Colorado Mesa University - 1455 N 12th St - University Center, Room 213
- CMU Tech – 2520 Blichmann Ave - Building B, Room 171
More voting and drop box locations
