Democracy Day at Carnegie Mellon University is dedicated to fostering civic participation, well-being and community engagement.

This year, our efforts were focused on events leading up to a significant election and providing the CMU community with a centralized resource for all democracy-related activities.

There are no classes on Democracy Day prior to 5 p.m. On that day, the entire CMU community — faculty, staff and students — is encouraged to participate in the varied events happening across campus and/or in the broader community. Those eligible and planning to vote in person are encouraged to utilize the day to do so. 

Thanks to everyone who engaged in Democracy Day on November 5, 2024! We hope you found the events and resources meaningful and informative. Please check back for more information on Democracy Day 2025.

Voting Resources

This theme emphasizes the critical role of access to reliable, non-partisan voting information. It aims to equip voters with the tools they need to confidently navigate the voting process, from understanding how to register and where to vote, to learning about the candidates and issues on the ballot. By providing comprehensive resources, we aim to support an informed electorate, empowering individuals to participate fully in democracy with clarity and confidence.

Why We Vote: Understanding Civic Motivations

This theme centers on exploring the diverse motivations that drive individuals to participate in the democratic process. It encourages reflection on the personal, social, and cultural reasons behind voting, aiming to foster a deeper connection to civic engagement. By highlighting different perspectives on why voting matters, we seek to inspire more thoughtful and informed participation in democracy.

Well-Being and Democracy

This theme emphasizes the link between personal well-being and civic engagement. It recognizes that fostering a healthy community—physically, mentally, and emotionally—strengthens democratic participation. By promoting wellness as part of Democracy Day, we encourage individuals to approach civic duties with balance and resilience, ensuring that the act of voting and engaging in democracy is supported by overall personal well-being.

Education & Action

This theme focuses on the intersection of learning and civic participation. It encourages individuals to become informed about the democratic process while actively engaging in shaping their communities. By connecting knowledge with practical steps for involvement, we aim to highlight the importance of turning education into action—whether through dialogue, advocacy, or local engagement. Engagement opportunities in this theme emphasize that understanding the issues, the political landscape, and how governance works is essential for making meaningful contributions to society.


Committee Members

Aden Eagle

Doctoral Student, Neuroscience Institute

Caleb Brobst

Undergraduate Student, Business Administration

Candace Okello

Assistant Dean of Student Affairs for Civility Initiatives 

Dareen Basma

Associate Dean of Diversity, Inclusion, Climate and Equity, Heinz College

Greg Wong

Doctoral Student, Materials Science and Engineering

Jack Crone

Coordinator of SLICE

Jonathan Cervas

Assistant Teaching Professor, Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology

Jordan M. Fields

Masters Student, Public Policy and Management

Elizabeth Vaughan

Associate Dean of Student Affairs, James and Sharon Rohr Director of Civic Engagement

Mark D'Angelo

Community, Culture and Engagement Specialist

Sydney Prescott

Undergraduate Student, Chemistry

Zach Berger

Undergraduate Student, Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy and Technology

Zia Lyle

Doctoral Student, Civil and Environmental Engineering