Under the midday Cullowhee heat, the large purple Center for Community Engagement and Service Learning tent glistens in the sunlight. Under the shaded tent are pocket constitutions, voter registration forms, baked goods and other information aimed at encouraging civic engagement among Western Carolina University students. This was WCU’s way to mark National Constitution Day on Sept. 17.
“The main purpose is just to let people know about Constitution Day, help give them information about all our upcoming elections, and help inform people about what it’s actually like in the Constitution,” said Jenna Kubiak, the assistant director for the CCESL.
Cats from Catman2, a local non-profit cat sanctuary, were scheduled to come to the event but were unable to attend. Instead, a sign-up sheet was available for those interested in volunteering.
Students were welcome to grab educational cards, cat-themed stickers, patriotic treats and CCESL merchandise. Those interested could sign up for voter registration or even read an amendment from the Constitution aloud.
Among the goodies were sample ballots, allowing voters to practice exploring candidates and practice voting.
“The sample ballots are really helpful, so then you can look into each individual person very easily and know what you’re going to do before you walk in, and you’re not walking in blind,” said WCU junior Natalie McDaniel.
Along the table were cards with QR codes, which were designed to educate people on things they should know before they go to vote.
“I just love seeing the students get so engaged and, like, learning about new things,” Kubiak said. “I think it’s really important to have a place where students can get, like, neutral, nonpartisan information about elections, but also about government in general.”
Additionally, on the cards was information about local elections and the new in-person voting location at the Health and Human Sciences building.
The CCESL wants to remind voters that early voting starts Oct. 15 and continues until Oct. 31. The HHS polling site is open from 8 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. weekdays, and on Saturdays, Oct. 24 and Oct. 31 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Voting is unavailable on Sundays in Jackson County.
Kubiak also shared some advice for those who are confused about where to start their voting process.
“I would start by looking up your sample ballot, and then you can start by researching your candidates and getting to know a little bit more about them,” Kubiak said.
Your sample ballot can be found on NC Voter Lookup, and you must register to find it.
Election Day is Nov. 3 from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
