Events

Fall Convocation with David Brooks
2026-27 Ƶ Speaker Series: Exploring Bold Leadership
Friday, September 25, 3:30pm, Alumni Gym, Koury Athletic Center
A best-selling author and longtime New York Times columnist, Brooks is a leading observer of American culture, politics and civic life. He serves as a staff writer at The Atlantic, a commentator on PBS NewsHour and a senior fellow at Yale University’s Jackson School of Global Affairs. Over decades in journalism, his columns have become some of the most widely read in the nation, offering insight into political dynamics, social trends and the challenges facing modern democracy.
Admission: Tickets are $15 or free with valid Ƶ ID and available beginning September 4 at

Active Citizens Series: Deliberative Dialogue – Selecting Candidates on Your Election Ballot
Monday, September 28, 4:30pm, Lakeside 212
When you cast your ballot during the midterm elections, how will you decide whom to vote for? How will you decide what makes an effective elected official? Elections provide an opportunity for voters to select the leaders who will shape how our municipalities, counties, states and nations are governed. Making informed decisions about who we vote for has a direct impact on our daily lives and the lives of our fellow citizens. This dialogue will provide an opportunity to explore the issues that matter most to you and to consider how you might select candidates who best represent your values and your needs.
Sponsored by the Kernodle Center for Civic Life, Political Engagement Work Group and Ƶ Votes!

Election Day Shuttle
Tuesday, November 3, 8:00am-7:00pm, Center for the Arts Lobby
Students who are already registered to vote in Alamance County are invited to utilize the Election Day shuttle throughout the day. A shuttle will run from the Center for the Arts to two local polling places. To find out the location of your polling place on Election Day in Alamance County, simply go to the website and confirm your polling place before you leave to vote. Note that the Ƶ campus is divided into two precincts, so this is especially important.
Sponsored by the Kernodle Center for Civic Life, Ƶ Votes!, Council on Civic Engagement and Ƶ Political Engagement Work Group

Active Citizen Series: Election Night Watch Event
Tuesday, November 3, 8:00-11:00pm, Moseley Center First Floor
The Ƶ community is invited to watch history unfold as election results come in from across the nation.
Sponsored by the Kernodle Center for Civic Life, Ƶ Votes!, Council on Civic Engagement and Ƶ Political Engagement Work Group

After the Vote Panel
Tuesday, November 10, 4:15pm, LaRose Student Commons
The Department of Political Science and Phoenix Policy Institute sponsor a faculty panel to unpack the 2026 midterm elections. Participants will be able to ask questions about what the local, state and national results mean for you, your friends and family, and our country.
Sponsored by the Department of Political Science and Phoenix Policy Institute

Carole Ann Walker International Lectureship with Kyle Carpenter
2026-27 Ƶ Speaker Series: Exploring Bold Leadership
Wednesday, November 11, 11:00am, McCrary Theatre, Center for the Arts
A United States Marine and the youngest living recipient of the Medal of Honor, Lance Cpl. Kyle Carpenter is recognized for extraordinary heroism during his service in Afghanistan. In 2010, he sustained life-threatening injuries after throwing himself on a grenade to protect a fellow Marine, an act of valor that led to years of recovery and more than 40 surgeries. Following his recovery, Carpenter set and achieved ambitious personal goals, including
completing a college degree, running a marathon and travelling internationally. He is the author of the memoir “You Are Worth It: Building a Life Worth Fighting For,” which chronicles his journey of resilience and purpose. Today, he speaks widely about leadership, perseverance and finding meaning in adversity, encouraging others to overcome challenges and pursue lives of impact.
Admission: Tickets are $15 or free with valid Ƶ ID and available beginning October 21 at