From the Nominator

In January 2020, the University of California launched a systemwide, nonpartisan get-out-the-vote and civic engagement campaign. The effort sought to increase voter registration and turnout among UC students and the wider UC community, support the State of California in driving participation in the 2020 elections and U.S. Census, and demonstrate UC’s deep commitment to public service. As the pandemic upended in-person voter registration and turnout drives, the census process, and UC students’ usual organizing efforts, the multi-channel campaign became a critical component of the university outreach effort. Starting in March 2020, the campaign pivoted to keep new and experienced voters apprised of rapidly evolving changes to the census and voting process.

Led by the UC Office of the President (UCOP) External Relations & Communications division, in partnership with the UCOP Student and Equity Affairs division, UC campuses, and external partners, our campaign succeeded in engaging tens of thousands of UC students, alumni, and community members across all 10 campuses, bolstered our relationship with the California Secretary of State’s Office and other policymakers, and elevated public awareness across California of UC’s role in preparing the next generation of civically-engaged leaders and citizens.

From the Judges

We like how the campaign strengthened connections with lawmakers and engaged thousands of community members around the census, and that it drove record census levels of participation. We applaud their commitment to civic engagement and public service. This can serve as a model for other institutions, and positioned UC as a thought leader on these issues. Active emphasis on relationship building and info sharing with lawmakers is also replicable. They show how campaigns can be adapted to be even more effective in fast-changing circumstances. We really liked their materials and website—eye catching and college student appealing. Definitely a standout in execution and results.