Hello Wildcats,
The beginning of the school year is always filled with anticipation and energy, and this year adds an extra dimension of excitement as we navigate the dynamics and opportunities of a national election together.
New Hampshire’s primary date is a week from today on September 10th, almost two months in advance of the general election on November 5th. As a university committed to educating and developing our students to be civically and democratically engaged citizens, we encourage everyone to take part in this election. If you are unsure about voter eligibility and registration requirements or if you haven’t yet made a plan to vote here in the Granite State or your home state, find more information about voting on the UNH Votes website.
New Hampshire often attracts considerable national attention during the election season, and as the general election nears, we can expect a surge in political activity across colleges and universities nationwide. While this time can be exhilarating, it may also bring a heightened sense of intensity and debate.
We encourage everyone to build their capacity to tolerate contrary viewpoints and work constructively with those they disagree with both on and off-campus. Students often ask about their rights and responsibilities related to expressive activities and demonstrations, as well as UNH’s role in politics, including when politicians speak on our campus. To help with this, we've put together some frequently asked questions and informative resources on the topic of engaging with different viewpoints. Visit the Community Standards website for detailed information regarding your rights and responsibilities and the Freedom of Expression and Guidelines on Peaceful Dissent policy for our policy and guidelines in full.
While our Freedom of Expression and Guidelines on Peaceful Dissent policy reflects constitutional parameters as a public institution, it should be viewed as an open invitation to role model and participate in critical inquiry, self-reflection and productive discourse.
Thank you for taking the time to read and we wish you a fantastic start to the academic year.
Sincerely,
Michael Blackman
Dean of Students
Christian Katumba
Undergraduate Student Body President
