In the week prior to election day, the importance of voting was underscored by visitors to campus.

The first to visit was vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin. She spoke to an enthusiastic crowd that packed Heiges Field House. Upon learning there was an overflow crowd who watched from the Luhrs Center, Palin took a few moments to stop in and say hello. She also took time for a wardrobe change and appeared wearing a “SHIP Happens” t-shirt. Two days later, Governor Ed Rendell was part of an SU College Democrats sponsored “Road to Change Rally” in the CUB. The rally was in support of Senator Barack Obama.

Searching for a way to gather information on the electorate’s beliefs, a deliberative poll on the subject of marriage in America was held at four sites including our campus. After a random sample of the population received information on the subject including historical, religious, and societal aspects of marriage, they gathered in small, moderated groups on the day of the poll to discuss the topic. The event concluded with a survey. Polls of this type could gain importance as states shape policies on hot-button social issues.

Students, regardless of political persuasion, had a variety of events to attend including a series of four programs each on a different topic facing the nation. Throughout the semester, students were encouraged to register and to exercise their right to vote.

On left: Sarah Palin made an impromptu stop to address the overflow crowd in the Luhrs Performing Arts Center after a wardrobe change. Scenes from the event include the crowd waiting to get in, Congressman Todd Platts ’84 addressing the crowd that filled Heiges Field House.

On right: Students for Obama await Governor Rendell as he brought his “Road to Change” Rally to Shippensburg. He spoke to students in the Ceddia Union building and afterwards took time to sign autographs and speak with attendees.