Missouri State University’s Paws to the Polls (PTTP) voter education initiative will host its second annual Voter Awareness Week Oct. 16-19, 2023.

This year’s theme is “Spotlight on Local Government.”

Members of PTTP will be available from Oct. 16-19 to register voters and raise awareness about the importance of voting in all elections, according to PTTP faculty coordinator Dr. Suzanne Walker-Pacheco.

“Many students who are registered elsewhere don’t realize that they can vote in Greene County (and even right on the MSU campus) while they live, study and work here,” Walker-Pacheco said. “Paws to the Polls is a resource for the entire campus community, as well as the community at large.

Voting Fair Oct. 18

PTTP’s signature event will be a Voting Fair on Wednesday, Oct. 18 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

The organization has invited several local elected officials, including the mayor, members of the local city council and school board, local state representatives and senators and appointed city officials to attend.

These officials will engage with students about the importance of local government. They will be available between 12-2 p.m.

“The goal is to bridge the gap between elected officials and the electorate with a specific emphasis on the campus community,” Walker-Pacheco explained. “The format will be that of a meet-and-greet, where students can approach the tables and ask questions regarding the elected officials’ positions and experience serving in local government.”

The Greene County Clerk will also make an appearance, Walker-Pacheco said, to visit with students and demonstrate the voting machines used on Election Day.

“This is not a campaign event, but an educational one,” Walker-Pacheco said.

Other campus offices and student organizations will be present, Walker-Pacheco added, “to engage with the students on campus in a positive, festive atmosphere.”

Walker-Pacheco encouraged those with any information or tabling relevant to local government or community engagement to contact her at 417-836-6358 or at SuzanneWalker@MissouriState.edu if they would like to participate in this year’s activities.

Voter Awareness Week schedule

Monday, Oct. 16

Voter registration tabling, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. between Siceluff Hall and Plaster Student Union (PSU)

Tuesday, Oct. 17

Voter awareness presentation and voter registration, 12-3:30 p.m., Multicultural Resource Center (PSU 101)

Wednesday, Oct. 18

Voting Fair, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on the West Mall (west of Carrington Hall between McDonald Arena and Plaster Sports Complex)

Thursday, Oct. 19

Voter registration tabling, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. between Siceluff Hall and PSU

Learn more about Paws to the Polls

News written by Dr. Suzanne Walker-Pacheco, edited by Reynolds College Communications Team.