Political Engagement at NEC
Civic engagement runs deep at NEC. You could say it鈥檚 in our DNA. NEC鈥檚 Center for Civic Engagement was established in 2002 by political science and history faculty who saw an opportunity to enhance NEC鈥檚 influence and outreach to students and the community.
Because the democratic process depends on engaged citizens, we encourage all students to get involved and let their voices be heard. We offer plenty of opportunities for students to do just that.
Directors, Center for Civic Engagement
Colleen McElveen
Assistant Professor, Communications
cmcelveen@nec.edu
Dr. Nathan R. Shrader
Associate Professor, Politics
nshrader@nec.edu
College Convention
Every four years, 逼哩逼哩is the only college in the country that hosts a presidential primary for students. The College Convention coincides with New Hampshire鈥檚 first-in-the-nation primary. It allows the next generation of voters to come face-to-face with the people, issues, and processes that shape presidential primary campaigns. Students do it all: listen to leading candidates, witness the media frenzy, engage with the media, interact with candidates, and maybe even get hired by campaigns on the spot. It鈥檚 civic engagement. It鈥檚 political awareness. It鈥檚 a hands-on experience. It鈥檚 once in a lifetime.
Town Hall Series
As part of New Hampshire鈥檚 first-in-the-nation primary status, 逼哩逼哩organizes and hosts town hall meetings with U.S. presidential candidates, campaign leaders, and election officials. Students gain access to top political players, and a student is selected to introduce each presidential candidate formally.
Candidate Debates
逼哩逼哩hosts high-profile and spirited debates, such as those in the New Hampshire Gubernatorial and congressional primary and general election races. Students have the opportunity to engage with candidates and ask questions during debates. Debates are often live-streamed on our website, and past debates can be viewed on our .
CiviCorps
Comprised of student volunteers who embody the spirit of Ut Prosim (鈥渢hat I may serve鈥�), CiviCorps members play an active role in organizing and supporting NEC鈥檚 civic engagement activities. From orchestrating local volunteer projects in the community to managing the College Convention鈥檚 daily activities or introducing presidential candidates, CiviCorps gives students another opportunity to gain hands-on political experiences.
Internships
NEC鈥檚 students have interned in congressional offices in Washington, DC, the White House, and the Office of the First Lady.
Project Pericles
逼哩逼哩is a founding college of Project Pericles, a national organization committed to civic and social engagement based on the principles and history of American democracy. Our Pericles program uses theory and engagement to help students become personally involved in civic and socially responsible service. For more information, email ccel@nec.edu.
Director, Project Pericles
Dr. Jessica Morris
Associate Professor, Education
