By Mira Radovich, Senior Contributing Writer
Rio Salado College has a longstanding tradition of providing opportunities for students to participate in civic engagement activities.
At its core, civic engagement is about making a difference in the community and working toward positive social change. It encourages people to take an active role in addressing issues that matter to them, whether on a local, national, or global scale.
Over the last year, Rio’s Student Life department has increased the number of civic engagement opportunities for students, staff and community members, including educational events, webinars and dialogue platforms.
“We have intensified our efforts to create opportunities for students to develop a strong presence in civil discourse and civic leadership,” said Kate Packer, Student Life and Leadership Director. “The goal is to help students become confident voters and engaged citizens while also connecting with each other and developing leadership skills.”
Civic Engagement Opportunities
- THIS WEEK! Join us Aug. 14 for Elections in Arizona Town Hall - Join us virtually or in-person for the “Voting and Elections in Arizona” town hall on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2024, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the Rio Salado College Conference Center or via Zoom. Find the registration link more information at: www.aztownhall.org/event-5694167
- Democracy Fellowship – Non-partisan opportunity for five students who are passionate about democratic engagement to receive $1,400 fellowships. It is a 10-hour weekly commitment from Aug. 26-Dec. 6. Apply by Aug. 23, 2024.
- Chancellor’s Civic Leadership Medallion – open to students who earn 100 points for qualifying civic leadership activities. In May, Rio students Tara Hayman, Shaniqua Hopkins and Saffron Wells received the 2024 civic leadership medallion.
- Constitution and Citizenship Day – Each year in September, Rio Salado College recognizes and celebrates this day with activities and events promoting a better understanding of the Constitution.
- Student Public Policy Forum - an academic program providing an overview of local, state and national public policy making and citizen involvement. The SPPF cohort meets Fridays from 1-4 p.m. in fall semester beginning Oct. 18. The deadline to apply is Oct. 9. Learn more.
- Navigating the 2024 General Elections Ballot - discover what to expect on this year’s General Elections ballot and hear an overview of the election process. This will be held virtually with AZ Clean Elections on Oct. 15. Register today.
Partnering Organizations
Rio Salado partners with many civic-minded organizations including the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, AZ Clean Elections Commission, Campus Vote Project, Civic Nation, Fair Elections Center, Maricopa County Community College District’s Center of Excellence in Inclusive Democracy, and VoteRiders.
Packer added that Rio Salado is also working toward earning the Voter Friendly Campus designation, and creating a local community Rotaract organization.
Students, staff, and community members are welcome to participate in Rio Salado’s civic engagement events.
For more information, visit our website or email the Student Life and Leadership department at StudentLife@riosalado.edu.