University of Houston Earns “Voter Friendly Campus” Title for Championing Civic Engagement

DSA News
June 09, 2025

In a remarkable demonstration of civic commitment and community spirit, the University of Houston (UH) has been officially designated as a Voter Friendly Campus. This prestigious recognition celebrates UH’s dedicated efforts to promote voter registration, education, and participation across its campus community.

Awarded by the Fair Elections Center’s Campus Vote Project and NASPA – Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education, the Voter Friendly Campus designation is more than a title—it’s a reflection of the university’s ongoing work to empower students, faculty, and staff to actively participate in the democratic process.

“Voter participation is a cornerstone of civic engagement,” said Katy Kaesebier, director of the Center for Student Involvement. “This designation is an exciting achievement for the University of Houston. It represents the culmination of the hard work from many students, faculty, and staff to help our community understand the value and importance of voting.”

Over the past year, the University of Houston has rolled out a range of strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening civic awareness and voter involvement. These efforts, a collaboration between campus administrators, academic departments, and student-led organizations, were part of a comprehensive action plan designed to educate and engage the campus population. The university hosted dynamic voter registration drives and educational events, attracting over 400 participants throughout the year. These efforts facilitated the registration of 2,248 new voters, a powerful indicator of the campaign's success and reach. Additionally, UH served as an official polling location for both early voting and Election Day, offering students and community members a convenient and accessible place to cast their votes.

These actions not only helped raise awareness but also made the voting process more accessible to the UH community.

“This designation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, faculty, and staff who have prioritized civic engagement and voter participation,” said Eric Smith, Associate Director of the Center for Student Involvement. “We are proud to provide resources and opportunities that empower our campus community to make their voices heard.”

The Voter Friendly Campus initiative encourages colleges and universities to institutionalize democratic engagement and develop long-term strategies for civic participation. UH’s success in this effort serves as a model for other institutions looking to create meaningful change through education and community involvement.