Marlins Vote
A commitment to citizenship and civic engagement has been a critical element in the mission of Batten University since its founding.
A Batten University education moves students from emerging citizens to active citizenship. “Marlins Vote,” the University’s campus election engagement initiative, promotes a three-point program featuring voter registration, issues education, and volunteer opportunities. This program goes beyond “get out the vote” efforts to include a variety of academic and social activities designed to encourage students and the broader campus community to become active participants in the electoral process at the local, state, and national level.
As a national university of the liberal arts and sciences, Batten University is an ideal setting for dynamic and respectful dialogue on civic matters. A planning team of students, faculty, and staff brings together related efforts from across campus each year. Batten Engaged serves as the catalyst for this initiative and the creation of a broad institutional approach to involving students in civic life.
How to Get Involved
- Voter registration drives on-campus and off
- Community debate watch parties on campus
- Election “pop-ups” and other special events during election seasons
- Political speakers and presenters, including the “What’s at Stake: Election Series”
- Activities and presentations organized by the Robert Nusbaum Center and The Athenaeum
- Student organizations: College Republicans, Young Democrats, Black Student Union, and the Fraternity/Sorority Community
- Academic opportunities through Political Science, History, and other departments
- Internships and job opportunities with local campaigns or civic organizations
More Information
For more information, contact Batten Engaged, the Department of Political Science, or the Robert Nusbaum Center. You can also check the University Event Calendar or the Virginia Department of Elections for voter registration guidelines.
