The University Board of Elections is now promoting the student-wide election held in February. The ballot, created and distributed annually by the UBE, will consist of candidates running for leadership positions among the University's student governing bodies, as well as any referenda being proposed by these bodies.
In the past, the UBE has seen low voter turnout, UBE Chair Ricky Zein said, adding that on average, about 30 to 40 percent of students cast a vote.
"This year, I am hopeful that we can surpass 50 percent of the student voting population," Zein said.
The UBE hopes that candidate endorsements from other student organizations will help to increase the number of students who participate in the process.
"Any [contracted independent organization] can endorse a candidate, and their endorsement is communicative throughout the general study body," Zein said. "The general student body represents general student life. When they hear this info, it makes more sense for them to vote and reduces the degrees of distance between them and the candidates in the election."
Any organization also will have the opportunity to campaign directly for candidates using its funds. "It's the philosophy that any CIO can endorse a candidate," Zein said.
The UBE is not alone in attempting to increase student turnout, as Student Council - one of the governing bodies whose candidates will be on the ballot - will be working to promote voter awareness as well. Director of University Relations Dan Morrison said Council is currently encouraging younger students to throw their hats into the ring.
"Contested races always have a lot higher turnouts and more votes," Morrison said. "StudCo has power to let people know that elections are coming up. By getting diverse candidates, it brings different issues to the table and gets the word out."
Meanwhile, the Honor Committee plans to host "a town-hall style, open dialogue for students" to promote voter turnout, Chair Charles Harris said.
Students running for positions have until Feb. 6 to submit their petitions. The voting period will begin Feb. 21 at 10 a.m. and run through Feb. 27.
Read More
U.Va. researchers identify that HIV drugs can protect against Alzheimer’s disease
By Lauren Seeliger | 2 days agoDoctor Jayakrishna Ambati and his research team have begun work on a new drug called K9 which could treat and prevent Alzheimer’s.
Graduating students share their future plans as they enter the job market
By Nina Broderick | 3 days agoMany students find the Career Center to be a valuable tool during the job search and application process.
U.Va.’s Finals Weekend spotlights the achievement and service of the Class of 2025
By Leigh Bailey | 5 days agoIn University President Jim Ryan’s welcome address, he acknowledged the support of family members and friends present in the audience and beyond that played supportive roles in these graduates’ lives.
