Updated Guide to Campus Political “Do’s” and “Don’ts”

The American Council on Education has released an updated guide to campaign-related "do's" and "don'ts" for colleges and universities.

ACE's well-researched memorandum outlines practical steps colleges and universities should take before engaging in political activity. The memorandum is not intended to be a comprehensive legal guide, so please consult with your institution's counsel prior to taking action in the political arena. Pitfalls of inappropriate political activities include the potential loss of an institution's tax-exempt status, government lawsuits, and audits.

Notwithstanding these important guidelines, and in light of the partisan times, it is important that colleges and universities serve as focal points of common discourse, and continue to promote the vital responsibility of citizenship.

The National Campus Voter Registration Project, which is co-chaired by NAICU President David Warren, provides resources on not only campus voter registration and education activities, but advice on how campuses can be active participants in the nation's electoral process. For more information, see the project's "Your Vote, Your Voice" campus handbook.

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