Dialog, UA Faculty and Staff News

Advisory

Voting Counts
Counting Votes
Higher Ed Day 2003

After being subjected to unrelenting negative political advertising and political telemarketing, voters in Tuscaloosa had to get out in the rain to cast their ballots -- only to be faced with an uncertain outcome. Among many issues, voters also choose the leaders who will determine the financial security or insecurity of higher education in Alabama for the next four years. Without the threat of another election, will legislators, the Alabama governor and other political leaders support higher ed? Will the University be properly funded or face more financial insecurity? So, is it all worth the effort and brain power to keep up with issues and advocate for higher ed in the political process? Is it enough just to vote?

Counting Votes

According to figures released by the Higher Education Partnership (HEP), voting by those connected to Alabama's institutions of higher ed counts. Those votes send a message: Vote for us or we won't vote for you.

The figures show that in the 1998 general election, votes cast in university counties accounted for almost HALF of the votes cast statewide, 48.6 percent. More than 373,000 votes were cast in university counties in the 2002 primary elections. Those made up 47.5 percent of all votes cast in June. Voting is a voice that is heard.

Higher Ed Day 2003

Influence also counts, and those who wish to advocate for higher ed in the political process can wield influence in several ways. One way is participation in Higher Education Day in Montgomery, which is scheduled just before the budgeting process begins in the Alabama Legislature. Plan to attend and encourage other faculty, staff, students and alumni to attend: Feb. 21, 2003, at the State House steps. A free barbecue lunch and a Job Fair will follow the rally. The theme is "Courageous Solutions."

Another way is to join HEP, Alabama's advocacy group for the state's universities, and UAS PAC, a means of supporting state leaders who have a genuine concern for the needs of higher education. To get more information on these organizations or to join, go to http://governmentrelations.ua.edu/.