Dear Members of the UMBC Community,
Civic engagement is a core element of UMBC’s vision and strategic plan, and we can all take pride in the many ways students, faculty, and staff are participating in the 2020 Election. We encourage everyone in the UMBC community to learn about the issues, engage in respectful conversation with others who may have diverse perspectives, make a plan to vote, and support one another during this unusual election process complicated by the pandemic.
This message from the Governor of Maryland notes options for those voting in person, including early voting, which continues through Monday, November 2, and voting on Election Day, Tuesday, November 3, at one of the voting centers that will be open across the state. Detailed information about voting is available at elections.maryland.gov/2020.
We commend the Student Government Association, Graduate Student Association, other student organizations, and UMBC Athletics teams for their active promotion of civic engagement in Election 2020, and for encouraging students to take the ALL IN Pledge to Vote (here). We also want to highlight Election 2020 resources available to students, faculty, and staff through the UMBC Center for Democracy and Civic Life.
As the election unfolds, we know that many members of our community will need to vote in person and may encounter long lines and delays. Many others will support the election process as poll workers or as campaign volunteers. We also know that the polarized national discourse and potential delays associated with this election may elevate already challenging levels of stress for students, faculty, and staff.
We urge all to be aware of and responsive to the flexibility and support students and colleagues may need.
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We ask faculty to consider deferring assignments and major examinations or tests currently scheduled for Election Day and the day after, November 4.
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We ask that student organizations and teams continue to encourage voting and engagement by postponing any meetings and activities now scheduled for Election Day, but unrelated to Election 2020, until after the election.
- We ask that all offices provide reasonable scheduling flexibility to students and employees involved in the election process.
Finally, we invite you to participate in Election Night Extravaganza, a UMBC tradition that brings members of our community together to watch and discuss election results in real time. Election Night Extravaganza takes place on November 3 from 7 p.m. to midnight; you can RSVP here.
President Freeman Hrabowski and Provost Philip Rous
President Freeman Hrabowski and Provost Philip Rous
