Colonie Central High School recently welcomed the League of Women Voters to speak with our juniors and seniors about the importance of voting. League Representatives Suzanne Maloney, and Susan Quine-Laurilliard; along with Albany County Board of Elections members Frederick Thumhart, and Joseph Di Carmine, provided students with valuable insights into the world of elections. The event focused on educating students about the voting process, covering topics such as ballot structure, privacy rights, and what to expect during their first experience at the polls. The goal was to reduce any uncertainties students may have while empowering them to exercise their civic responsibilities confidently.

The presentation included a step-by-step walkthrough of how to properly fill out and submit a ballot, including a practice run where students were able to feed them through a mock ballot reader in order to fully understand the importance of properly marking their ballots. The guest speakers also addressed common concerns young voters often face, ensuring that students left feeling informed and prepared. Special attention was given to answering questions posed by students about the voting process, and sharing resources that aimed to help young voters begin their own research into different candidates and policies. 

“It is such a pleasure to connect with the younger members of our community and assist them as they begin to take the next steps into adulthood, preparing themselves to become active voters,” said Quine-Laurilliard. “Here at the League of Women voters, our mission is to stress the importance of encouraging informed and active participation in government. We have been dedicated to empowering voters and safeguarding democracy to make voting inclusive and accessible to all communities by advocating for increased access to the polls, expanding early voting and supporting automatic and online voting registration,” She adds. 

In addition to the informative presentation, students were given the opportunity to register or pre-register to vote. Due to the efforts of The League of Women Voters, 255 CCHS students were registered to vote and 201 students have pre-registered ro vote during the visits this past week. This opportunity allows students to take a proactive approach toward civic engagement, fostering a sense of responsibility that will benefit them in future elections.

“This event highlights the ongoing effort at Colonie to bring in influential guests to provide students with tools for long-term success and active citizenship,” said Associate Principal Melissa Judge. “We are so grateful to the League of Women Voters for coming to speak with our upperclassmen, and for demystifying the process, making it easier for students to participate in elections in the future.” 

For more information about Albany County elected officials and the Albany County Board of Elections Dedicated webpage, we encourage you to visit Albany County’s official website. 
For voting resources and information on how to register to vote, as well as information regarding current issues and candidates representing you in the upcoming local elections, visit VOTE411 and the League of Women Voters’ website.