The Center for Economic and Civic Learning (CECL) at Ball State is recruiting students for the 2026–2027 Democracy Fellows Program.
Democracy Fellows serve as peer leaders within Cardinals Vote!, Ball State’s nationally recognized, nonpartisan campus initiative affiliated with the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge. During the 2026 election cycle, Fellows will help students navigate democratic participation with integrity, confidence, and informed judgment.
This spring, Fellows will receive invitations to small-group conversations and a private student dinner this April with Emily Esfahani Smith, author of The Power of Meaning, whose work explores belonging, purpose, and resilience in modern life.
Democracy Fellows are positioned for nomination to prestigious national recognitions. Recent Democracy Fellows have received major civic honors, including:
Fellows also gain priority access to:
- CECL’s C4G speaker series funding (give your input)
- Civic travel and community-based learning experiences
- Funding and mentorship for student-led civic initiatives
- Select opportunities connected to national networks
What Democracy Fellows Do
- Help students access reliable voter information, deadlines, and participation pathways for the primaries and general election
- Design and lead student-centered civic forums and engagement nights
- Support constructive dialogue across differences
- Connect civic character to real-world practice through community-based projects
Who Should Apply?
Students from all majors are encouraged to apply - education, business, the arts, sciences, health professions, and beyond. We are seeking students who care about strengthening democratic culture and are willing to lead by example.
Designed for Real Student Schedules
This fellowship is structured to be meaningful without overwhelming your academic commitments. Participation requires approximately 2–4 hours per month, volunteer-based, with flexible engagement and clearly defined roles.
Faculty are encouraged to share this opportunity with students.
Apply Here - Democracy Fellows Application