The Office of Student Engagement is co-sponsoring debate watch parties with the Quinnipiac Political Science Association for the Presidential Debate on September 10 and the Vice-Presidential Debate on October 1.

Julianna Mazzella ’26, president of the Political Science Association, encourages students to attend these events and participate in the discussion.

“Voting demonstrates taking interest and being a part of our country, and it allows you to have a voice in society. Our organization believes it’s important to think about what your vote could mean for not just yourself, but for your friends, your family and the country as a whole,” said Mazzella.

Mazzella also serves as a member of the Quinnipiac Voter Education Committee and is determined to educate her peers on this election.

The Voter Education Committee is comprised of faculty, students and staff who work together to share information with the community about how to register, when and where to vote, and how this election impacts them on local, regional, state and federal levels.

“We welcome students interested in joining our work to feel free to contact Liz Cook, my assistant, to join our planning program,” said Tom Ellett, chief experience officer. “Knowing the issues, having a voice in the resolution of the issues, and selecting the best person to address your concerns is everyone’s business.”

The committee is not the only one working to share how to get registered. The Office of Student Engagement is planning different voter registration events around campus on September 12 and 17, October 2 and 14. September 17 will also mark National Voter Registration Day. 

“Voting is the most powerful right we have as citizens to chart the course of the future of our county in the short and long term. It is our responsibility to encourage and educate ourselves and others on the important responsibility we have as citizens to vote,” said Vincent Contrucci, director of community engagement.

The political organizations on campus are also gearing up to share the platforms each candidate is running on.

Zachary Foti ’25, president of the College Republicans, explained that it is essential to vote to participate in the United States government.

“As the Quinnipiac College Republicans, we believe it is essential for students to participate in voting in order to participate in the civic system of our country, and to ensure that the students understand the power they have in placing a vote for a candidate whom they believe will bring about the change they wish to see in society,” Foti said.

Nicholas Fizzano ’26, president of the Quinnipiac University Democrats, plans to work with the Voter Education Committee to emphasize the importance of each vote.

“While many of us have ideas for what we’d like to see in the world, and the change we want to implement, we need to take agency for that change. Your voice isn’t heard unless you make it heard,” Fizzano said. “It’s up to us to make the difference. Voting matters, and us voting matters.”

On November 5, the Political Science Association and the Office of Student Engagement will be hosting a watch party for the election results in the Piazza beginning at 8 p.m.