RICHMOND, Va. – The University of Richmond athletics department, in conjunction with the University's Bonner Center for Civic Engagement, has established the Spiders Vote Initiative to encourage voter registration, education and participation for all Spider student-athletes, coaches and staff.
"We all have the ability to make an impact in this country by exercising our right to vote, and I am very proud that our Spider student-athletes, coaches and staff members are willing to take a collaborative leadership role in this important area," said
John P. Hardt, Vice President and Director of Athletics. "The enthusiasm and passion of our Spider student-athletes and staff will set a great example for all members of our community to exercise their right to vote and have their voices heard."
The Spiders Vote Initiative will coordinate voter registration efforts and provide virtual educational sessions with Spider student-athletes throughout the fall semester. This programming will focus on important issues such as voting rights and historical perspectives on civic engagement.
"Voting is important and I encourage all Spiders to vote and get involved," junior women's basketball student-athlete and SAAC President
Molly Mraz said. "As the young generation of voters, this is our chance to have a voice and express our beliefs and opinions. We have the opportunity to help make a difference in our world and advocate for ourselves with hopes of a brighter future ahead."
The initiative is designed to encourage student-athletes and athletics staff to register to vote and become informed on important local and national issues. Following NCAA recommendations, the Spiders have joined many of their peer institutions in designating November 3
rd as a day off from athletics activity to allow all student-athletes, coaches and staffs to participate in Election Day.
"Voting unites all students, young adults and Americans with the opportunity to create the culture that we want to see in our community and our country," men's golf student-athlete
Michael Childress said. "I encourage all Spiders to research, educate themselves, and vote in order to help shape pivotal decisions that will impact their future."
"Voting is such an important duty we have as individuals," senior field hockey student-athlete and SAAC Vice President
Abra Granger said. "Your vote is your power, your voice and your freedom. We want to make sure our fellow Spiders are registered and ready to go for the upcoming election. Free and fair elections are fundamental to democracy."
For more information on the Spiders Vote Initiative and voter registration, please click
HERE.
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