ATHERTON, Calif. — With the November 3, 2026, general election approaching, Menlo College students are promoting civic participation through the student-led Civic Engagement Coalition. From hosting discussions with elected officials to visiting classrooms and helping peers navigate the voting process, the club is empowering students to become informed and engaged voters.
On October 7, the Civic Engagement Coalition hosted a voter education forum inthe Russell Center, located on Menlo College’s campus. The event brought together elected officials, political experts, and election representatives to help students better understand the upcoming November election, including statewide and local races, ballot propositions, and the importance of informed voter participation.
Panelists included California State Senator Josh Becker; San Mateo County Supervisor and Menlo College adjunct faculty member Ray Mueller; political consultant Jason Galisatus; San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division Outreach Coordinator Chephren Goree; and Menlo College Interim Chief Academic Officer and Professor of Political Science Dr. Melissa R. Michelson.
During an interactive Q&A session, students explored the electoral process, the importance of informed voting, and opportunities to participate in civic affairs.
Bringing Civic Engagement Into the Classroom
Beyond the forum, Civic Engagement Coalition members visited Menlo classes to encourage voter registration, answer election-related questions, and introduce students to the importance of civic participation early in their college experience.
For coalition member Orion Jenkins-Schell, the classroom visits offered an opportunity to strengthen students’ understanding of the political process. “We truly believe it to be our mission to be the backbone of the education for the populace here on campus,” Jenkins-Schell said, emphasizing the club’s efforts to help students better understand political parties, ballots, and propositions.
The forum further supported this mission by connecting students with civic leaders and real-world perspectives on public policy. Dr. Melissa R. Michelson highlighted the educational value of these experiences. “Civic engagement is an essential part of preparing students to become informed, thoughtful leaders,” Michelson said. “Events like this allow students to move beyond the classroom, ask meaningful questions, and better understand how they can contribute to the democratic process and their communities.”
Extending Community Engagement Through Rotaract
Menlo College students are also demonstrating civic responsibility through the Menlo College Rotaract Club, which connects students with volunteer opportunities and community organizations.
In September, Rotaract Club members volunteered at the annual Tour de Menlo, a community cycling fundraiser organized by the Rotary Club of Menlo Park. The event raises funds for need-based college scholarships for local high school students, bringing together volunteers, cyclists, and community supporters.
“Being part of Rotaract gives us the opportunity to make a difference beyond campus while building meaningful relationships with our community,” said Menlo College student Angel Cody, president of the Menlo College Rotaract Club. “Volunteering at Tour de Menlo was a great example of how students can come together to support a cause that directly benefits others. It’s rewarding to know that our involvement helps create opportunities for future college students.”
The partnership extends beyond the cycling event. Through the Menlo Rotary Community Foundation, the Rotary Club has also provided financial support to the Oak Shack, Menlo College’s on-campus basic needs pantry, which offers food and hygiene essentials to students and other members of the Menlo College community.
The relationship has historical roots: John D. “Judge” Russell (1911–1996), an influential figure who dedicated nearly 60 years of service to Menlo College, was among the founding members of the Rotary Club of Menlo Park. The Russell Center on the Menlo campus, named in his honor, reflects his legacy of education, mentorship, and community service.
Menlo College Executive Director of Career Services and Student Engagement LaShonda Kennedy sees these experiences as opportunities for students to develop leadership skills while making a difference in their communities. “At Menlo College, we want students to recognize that leadership and civic responsibility extend far beyond the classroom,” Kennedy said. “Whether they’re helping their peers prepare to vote, volunteering with the Rotary Club, or supporting initiatives that address basic needs, our students are learning the value of showing up for their communities. These experiences help them develop the confidence, empathy, and leadership skills to make a meaningful difference both during college and throughout their careers.”
Together, the Civic Engagement Coalition and Rotaract Club demonstrate how Menlo College students are applying their education through service, leadership, and community involvement.
Menlo College to Serve as Official Vote Center
In addition to providing an on-campus ballot drop box, Menlo College will also serve as an official San Mateo County Vote Center for the November 3, 2026, general election, offering students and community members convenient access to voting services. Located in the Russell Center at 1000 El Camino Real in Atherton, the Vote Center will be open October 31 through November 3. Voters can cast ballots in person, return completed vote-by-mail ballots, register to vote, or request replacement ballots.
Menlo College Vote Center Hours:
For a complete list of San Mateo County Vote Centers and additional voting information, visit:
https://www.athertonca.gov/DocumentCenter/View/12821/52-ENG-Info3-VoteCenterMap-Location-GU-v5
Register to Vote
Eligible California residents can register to vote, update their registration, or learn more about the process through the San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division:
https://smcacre.gov/elections/voter-registration
California’s regular online voter registration deadline for the November 3 election was October 19, 2026. Eligible voters who missed the deadline can still register and vote through California’s conditional voter registration process at designated voting locations, including Vote Centers.
As Election Day approaches, the Civic Engagement Coalition encourages students and community members to check their registration status, research candidates and ballot measures, and make a plan to vote. Through student leadership, community partnerships, and hands-on experiences, Menlo College continues to prepare students to be informed, engaged, and Future Ready Now.
Media inquiries: pr@menlo.edu
About Menlo College
Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, Menlo College is a small, residential liberal arts and business college dedicated to preparing students to be Future Ready Now. Through a highly personalized educational experience that combines rigorous academics, applied learning, mentorship, and direct access to one of the world’s most innovative economies, Menlo College helps students convert education into measurable career and life outcomes. For more information, please visit our website or contact pr@menlo.edu.
