By Richie Nana Nketsiah & Anthony Baiocchi
The Truman College Campus Compact Group and Phi Theta Kappa Honor’s held a series of events this past month to raise students’ involvement in the democratic process called the “People’s Voice 2008.” These events were intended to put students in dialogue about current events and complement curriculum. Professor William Settles, a participant in one of the events, believes “Truman’s goal is to help students become global citizens.” The first event took place on Oct. 14 in Truman’s cafeteria and featured faculty members in a debate on national topics relevant to students, including health care, education, immigration and the economy. The following week, an information panel with experts in the aforementioned fields answered questions from an audience, of mostly students.
A third and final event, a video discussion revolving around the question “Why Vote,” took place in the front lobby on Oct. 28. According to Amanda Star, President of the Honors Society and SGA, more than 150 people turned out to each of the events. “What we’re trying to do is basically enhance the college atmosphere by promoting civic engagement and hopefully boosting retention rates,” said Star. Those who showed up for the faculty debate were rewarded wit spirited banter and genuine enthusiasm. Along with Settles, Richard Valencia of the
Advising Center, Max Gulias of the Communications Department and Mrs. Abra Johnson of the Social Science Department tackled topics with “professionalism,” according to student audience member Jack Foucre.”
Christian McDonald, a student and audience member on Oct. 21, recognized the event’s significance: “It’s not really about who you are voting for but about whether you’re educated enough to make a decision.”
Valencia agrees, adding, “It is hard to get students involved and I was delighted to participate in something that would bring the issues close to home.” The discussion group on Oct. 21 consisted of Davis Pierce, former CEO of the National Organization of Community Colleges, David Mearsa, a Loyola Business Administration professor, Antonio Rosas-Landa, opinion editor for “Hoy!,” Rick Guffman from the Illinois Masonic Hospital, U.S. Rep. Greg Harris—13th district and Carolyn Shoenberger, a lawyer from the Chicago Legal Clinic. Truman History professor, Dennis Skentzis, hosted a discussion following the video “18 in ’08” on Oct. 28 in the lobby. This student-made video centered on the younger voting habits and how they can be changed for the better. Student turnout is now expected at the polls this year more than any other, according to a Truman polls survey group. Star was extremely pleased with participation from students and faculty alike. “The faculty performed wonderful in the debate and the panelists in the discussion forum provided some input as opposed to topics strictly related to Truman. We picked the right people for the event,” Star concluded.
