Elon is taking part in a new national effort, led by Harvard University’s Institute of Politics, to encourage participation in politics by America’s college students.
George Taylor, professor of political science and director of Elon’s Institute for Politics and Public Affairs, accompanied students Brett Cooper and Karen Baum to initial strategic planning meetings Oct. 10-12.
Representatives from 11 colleges and universities are attending the meetings. The group, which will be called the National Campaign for Political and Civic Engagement, will draw from its collective knowledge and experience to exchange information and ideas about how to build greater interest and involvement in politics by young people.
The group’s primary mission will be focused in three key areas:
- Relationship with electoral politics
- Focus on career development
- Foundation in civic education
Members of the National Campaign for Politcial and Civic Engagement will work together to provide and coordinate information and opportunities for students, convene training and workshops and increase access to relevant individuals and organizations.
The other institutions participating in the effort are:
- American University
- California State University at Monterey Bay
- Clark Atlanta University
- Grinnell College
- Ohio State University
- Rutgers University
- Saint Anselm College
- Tufts University
- University of Kansas
- University of Utah
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