In recognition of Augsburg University’s commitment to democratic engagement, Election Day, Tuesday, November 3, will be a holiday for Augsburg employees and students.
President Paul Pribbenow lauds the ongoing efforts on campus to encourage voter registration and participation. “Augsburg is poised to be a leader in the national All-In Campus Democracy Challenge,” he said.
Because many people are voting early this year, Pribbenow encouraged faculty, staff, and students to use the holiday as an opportunity to assist others in the electoral process through forms of community engagement such as serving as a poll worker or transporting others to voting sites.
Augsburg administrative offices will be closed and classes will be canceled. Essential staff will be provided time off with pay during their shift to vote, if necessary, and receive an alternate day off.
2020 is a pilot year for introducing Election Day as a new holiday on Augsburg’s calendar. Leaders from the Sabo Center, student government, and Human Resources will develop a recommendation for an Election Day holiday in subsequent years.