Ramblers get ready to vote

With Election Day just a month away on November 5, Loyola students are busy creating their voting plans for this election season. From learning how to navigate a ballot to attending campus events, students are actively getting involved.

A tradition of civic engagement 

Ramblers take pride in their strong tradition of civic engagement. In 2020, Loyola earned the top spot in voter registration and turnout among four-year institutions in Illinois—a testament to our community’s commitment to making their voices heard at the polls. Ahead of the 2024 election, 100% of all eligible Rambler student-athletes were registered to vote. 

At the heart of this civic culture is Loyola Votes, a campus-wide initiative that champions voting, education, and participation as a core part of Jesuit education. Loyola Votes plays a key role in driving these impressive turnout numbers. 

“At Loyola, we believe that civic engagement is not just a responsibility but a core part of our identity as a Jesuit institution,” says Phil Hale, vice president for Civic Engagement and Government Affairs. “Through programs like Loyola Votes, we strive to empower students to be informed, active participants in democracy. Our students’ dedication to voting, organizing, and educating themselves is truly inspiring, and it’s a reflection of the values we hold dear—working for justice and the common good.”

Events around campus

To help Ramblers stay informed and engaged, Loyola Votes is hosting a Voter Education Series, including “Brownies and Ballots.” Your Vote, Your Voice: Making It Count will take place on Wednesday, October 23, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., featuring a panel of four industry experts, ranging from media company CEOs to government and public affairs communicators. 

Following the election, Loyola Votes will also host Resilience & Recognition: A Post-Election Volunteer Celebration on Wednesday, November 13, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., featuring more guest speakers to honor the hard work of volunteers and reflect on a successful election season. 

Other student organizations can also host voting events for their communities by filling out the online form and collaborating with Loyola Votes for assistance. 

Resources and reminders

Loyola Votes recognizes that navigating a ballot can be daunting. In response, the program encourages students to use the resource list to learn about potential candidates, policies they care about, and understand how to navigate their ballot. Ramblers can find more voting information and tips on the Loyola Votes resource page.  

“There’s such a strong interest in making a difference, and we’re here to make the process as easy as possible,” says Sadie Walden, Loyola Votes’ project manager. “Whether it’s helping someone register to vote for the first time or sharing information on absentee ballots, we’re helping Ramblers take action.” 

It is important to know that deadlines to register to vote, apply for an absentee ballot, and send in your ballot may vary by state. Be sure to check your home state’s voter registration deadline. 

And don’t forget: Election Day is on November 5, 2024. (Remember: You can still register to vote and vote in person on Election Day!)