RELEASE: Citizen Action Illinois Expands Campus Vote Fellows Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Anusha Thotakura

anusha@citizenaction-il.org

 Citizen Action Illinois Expands Campus Vote Fellows Program to Western Illinois University After Engaging Over 1,300 Student Voters at ISU

Chicago, IL – Citizen Action Illinois is excited to announce the growth of its Campus Vote Fellows Program, which has already connected with over 1,400 student voters at Illinois State University (ISU). Each of these students has committed to reminding five friends to vote, creating a powerful wave effect that extends voter participation across campus and beyond. As part of the program, students will receive early voting reminders and voter guides to help them and their networks make informed choices at the polls.

Today, the program officially expands to Western Illinois University (WIU) with the launch of 15 new fellows. The fellows at both ISU and WIU are promoting early voting, which begins today at ISU and will kick off next week at WIU. Their mission is to encourage their peers to vote early and spread the word to their networks.

"We’re investing in young voters because they care deeply about the issues shaping their future—whether it’s climate action, reproductive rights, or gun safety," said Anusha Thotakura, Director of Citizen Action Illinois. "Elections covering these campuses are often decided by razor-thin margins, and we are proud to empower students to drive turnout in places where their voices can make the difference."

Program Impact

1,400+ ISU students engaged: Each has pledged to remind five friends to vote.

15 new fellows launched at WIU: WIU fellows are starting today to encourage early voting on campus.

Early voting support: Students are provided text reminders, early voting information, and voter guides to boost turnout.

Relational organizing at the core: Fellows focus on peer-to-peer outreach, helping students mobilize their personal networks for maximum impact.

"The program leverages proven, research-backed strategies to boost youth voter turnout," Thotakura explained. "Relational organizing, where peers engage their personal networks, is the most effective way to mobilize younger voters. We’re thrilled to expand this data-driven initiative and empower students to shape the outcomes of key races in this high-stakes election year."

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