We asked the Pitt Social Work community to share why voting is important to them, and what their voting plan is for tomorrow’s election.
‘Voting is important to me because THIS IS OUR COUNTRY AND OUR GOVERNMENT SHOULD REFLECT OUR VALUES.”
“I already voted.”
-Betsy Farmer, Dean
“Voting is important to me because as a social worker I must use every opportunity to advocate for the well-being of others, particularly those who have been historically disenfranchised.”
“I will vote in person (with my mask on) on the morning of November 3. Historically voting is a family event for us, but this time we'll be leaving the kids at home.”
-Keith J. Caldwell, EdD, MSW, Associate Dean for Student Success
“Voting is important to me because it is an easy yet effective way to participate in the democratic process. It compels us to have an opinion about how we want things to be and who we want to help us achieve those goals. It is also important to me that I not take for granted the ability to do something that others in other parts of the world are unable to freely do.”
“I voted by mail early in October and received confirmation that my ballot was received.”
-JulieHera DeStefano, first year MSW student
“As my father told me many times when I was growing up, so many people--some who I know, many who I do not--fought and died so that all Americans can exercise the right to vote.”
“I requested a mail-in ballot and submitted it in early October.”
-Devin Cecere, Development Associate for Alumni Engagement
“Voting is important to me as a woman because by voting I honor the legacy of the suffragettes and help to ensure our health of our democracy.”
“I plan to vote in person at my polling station which is on the street where I live.”
-Mary Ohmer, Associate Professor and Chair, COSA Specialization
“Voting is important to me because it's an opportunity to have my voice and opinions heard. It affects every single one of us whether it's a local or presidential election.”
“I utilized the Allegheny County early satellite voting locations. I requested my mail in ballot, filled it out, and dropped it off all in one location.”
-Charlene Gardner, 2nd year MSW student
“Voting is important to me because it is my opportunity to actively participate in our democracy at the local level. I think about municipal elections which affects my real estate taxes, roads, and water lines. I get to help decide who is at the table. I have the privilege to influence who is making decisions about policing in my borough. That is an awesome opportunity and honor.”
“I opted to receive a mail-in ballot. My family submitted our ballots at the City/County building downtown on Saturday, October 24. I checked and my ballot has been received and confirmed.”
-LauraEllen Ashcraft, doctoral student