Drake University Hosts Early Voting Event for Students and Community

As Election Day approaches, Drake University is offering a convenient solution for those looking to avoid long lines. On Monday, October 19, the campus will host an early voting site in partnership with Polk County election officials.

Early Voting at the Knapp Center

Situated within the Knapp Center, the voting location continues a 16-year tradition of accessible early voting at the university. Organized by the collaborative efforts of the Drake College Republicans and Drake Democrats, this initiative has been a fixture since 2008, facilitating local neighborhood voting for registered voters.

• Date and Time: Monday, Oct. 19, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Location: Knapp Center, 2601 Forest Avenue, Des Moines
• Parking: Free street parking is available throughout the campus

Residents of precincts 14, 15, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, and 37 will find pre-printed ballots ready at this satellite location. Any registered Polk County voter is welcome to participate, with all precincts and ballot styles accessible. OpenElect marking devices are available for those needing assistance. Importantly, no prior absentee ballot request is needed; voters simply need to show up and vote. Registration is also available at the site with appropriate identification and residency proof.

Drake’s Commitment to Voter Engagement

Drake University’s efforts in promoting voter access have not gone unnoticed. Recognized with a Gold Seal by the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge, Drake has been lauded for high student voter turnout and strategic civic engagement plans. The Presidents’ Commitment initiative saw over 700 student signatures, underscoring a strong commitment to full voter participation on campus.

“When student leaders set aside their differences to make voting easier for everyone, that’s democracy at its best,” remarked Jessica Vanden Berg, executive director of The Ron and Jane Olson Institute for Public Democracy. “By bringing early voting to the Knapp Center, our students are making sure every voice on campus and in our community has a clear, convenient path to the ballot box.”

For more information about Drake University’s political science offerings, visit www.drake.edu/polsci/.