Students at Indiana University Kokomo had a unique opportunity to engage directly with
candidates that will be seen on the ballots May 5th during the recent “Meet the Candidate”
event. Organized collaboratively by the History and Political Science Club, College Democrats
at IUK, and College Republicans at IUK, the event aimed to increase civic engagement and
provide a welcoming, non-confrontational space for political discussion.
Candidates running for local, state, and federal offices had space allowing students to approach
them individually and learn more about their platforms. Rather than relying on media or
secondhand information, students were able to hear directly from those appearing on
upcoming primary ballots.
According to student organizer Grayson Arndt, the inspiration behind the event was rooted in a
desire to get more students involved in the political process. He emphasized that many students
are not necessarily uninterested in politics, but may lack awareness of their options or access to
reliable information.
“This was about giving students the chance to learn straight from the source,” Arndt explained.
“It creates a safe space where people can ask questions and form their own opinions.”
Arndt also noted that the environment remained calm and respectful throughout the event. For
him, one of the most meaningful moments was watching students and candidates engage in
genuine, productive conversations. “Seeing everyone get along and actually talk, that gave me
a lot of hope,” he said.
A notable feature of the event was an anti-political violence banner, which students and
candidates were invited to sign. The banner symbolized a shared commitment to respectful
political engagement, regardless of differing viewpoints.
Arndt described it as a way for participants to “stand united under one umbrella” and take a
public stance against political violence. The inclusion of candidates in signing the banner further
reinforced the event’s message of unity and mutual respect.
Students who attended the event offered thoughtful insights that highlighted both the strengths
of the event and areas for growth.
Danny Hall, Vice President of College Democrats at IUK, pointed out that while the event was
successful, representation could be expanded. They noted that only certain districts were
present, which limited the range of perspectives students could hear from. They
emphasized that “the event still served as a valuable learning experience, giving students the
chance to ask direct, meaningful questions.”
Whitney Shorrushi focused on the event’s overall role. She described it as an “important step in
helping students become more aware of their responsibilities as voters, especially for those who
may not actively seek out political information on their own.” For her, the event functioned as
both an educational space and a starting point for her deeper involvement.
Grace Gamblin shared a more personal takeaway, highlighting her interaction with Jackson
Franklin, one of the candidates. She described him as well-spoken and approachable, noting
that “the one-on-one format made it easier to form an impression of candidates as individuals
rather than distant public figures.” Other students also shared how they appreciated the
accessibility of the candidates throughout the event.
Dean Stoll, President of College Republicans at IUK, discussed the impact of the event. “This
has been a great unification event,” he said. “Students get to meet the people that represent
them, and it’s great to see more people getting involved.”
As the next election cycle approaches, events like this may play a key role in helping students
move beyond overlooking politics and towards active participation.
