One-stop online resource BruinVote levels up voter engagement across campus
Belmont has once again been recognized as a "Most Engaged Campus for Student Voting" by the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, underscoring the University’s dedication to fostering civic engagement. Belmont received the designation for the first time in 2022 after employing many strategies to increase voter turnout on campus.
This achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of the Office of Student Engagement, the Student Government Association, the Office of Service Learning and numerous campus partners in promoting voter education, registration and turnout.
"This distinction reflects Belmont's dedication to equipping students not only to excel in their academic and professional pursuits but also to actively contribute to their communities and make their voice heard during this election year," said Assistant Director of Student Engagement Derian Hamblin.
BruinVote Increases Engagement
Strategic initiatives play a central role in Belmont’s voter engagement, collaborative campus partnerships drive efforts that resonate across campus and exceptional student leadership ensures that initiatives are peer-focused and inclusive.
"The leadership and enthusiasm of our student body are at the heart of our success," noted Hamblin. "Their dedication enables us to connect meaningfully with students and continue building on our achievements."
This year, Belmont introduced BruinVote, a one-stop online resource designed to streamline access to state-specific voting information. The platform proved invaluable in addressing the diverse needs of Belmont’s student body, many of whom vote in different states with varying laws and requirements.
The BruinVote platform not only provided vital information but also engaged students, faculty and staff through a points-based system. Participants earned points for attending voting activities and redeemed them for prizes donated by Sodexo, the BruinShop, Frothy Monkey and national partners. Residence halls formed teams to compete for collective points, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.
Adapting to New Challenges and Opportunities
Between 2022 and 2024, Belmont’s voter engagement initiatives evolved to address challenges such as varying state laws for out-of-state students. The introduction of the BruinVote platform addresses this complexity by providing centralized, accurate voting information tailored to students’ specific needs.
"By leveraging technology and student leadership, we’ve been able to meet students where they are," Hamblin said. "This platform allowed us to effectively engage students — whether voting locally in Tennessee or nationwide — ensuring everyone had the tools to navigate their unique voting situations.”
Additionally, events and tabling efforts throughout the fall semester created opportunities for meaningful engagement. These activities highlighted the importance of civic participation while making the voting process approachable and accessible.
Voter engagement efforts were also enhanced through partnerships with local and national organizations, including the Tennessee Campus Democracy Network, the Nashville League of Women Voters, the Students Learn Student Vote Coalition and the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge.
As Belmont celebrates this recognition, the University remains committed to advancing civic engagement and preparing students to make a lasting impact in their communities.
Learn more about initiatives in the Office of Student Engagement.