Bridge DePaul Launched Second Academic Year

The student organization has shifted its focus to cultural activities and nonpartisan voter engagement in Chicago.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Civic Engagement

Isometric editorial illustration of two intersecting steel arched structures bridging a wide gap against a red brick building. — Bridge DePaul has launched its second academic year, pivoting its mission toward nonpartisan voter engagement and cultural programming for Chicago students. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Bridge DePaul has entered its second academic year, moving away from formal debates toward cultural discussions and service. The group is now organizing nonpartisan resources for students ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Why it matters

The organization formed following political friction during the 2024 pro-Palestinian encampment at DePaul University. Founders created the chapter to foster constructive dialogue between students holding diverse perspectives.

Bridge USA reported a total of 125 active chapters nationwide as of February 2026. The organization maintains a long-term goal of establishing a presence on 800 college campuses.

The players

Bridge DePaul

This student organization at DePaul University focuses on facilitating dialogue between students with differing political views.

Bridge USA

This national nonprofit organization seeks to bridge the partisan divide on college campuses through constructive discussion.

The details

Bridge DePaul transitioned its programming from debate-style events to cultural discussions, art, music, and community service projects. The group is currently preparing to distribute nonpartisan voter information sheets for the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.

Bridge DePaul formed in the fall of 2024.
Bridge USA reached 125 chapters in February 2026.
The chapter began its second academic year in September 2026.
Midterm elections are scheduled to occur in 2026.

Political Context

Some student groups and faculty activists continue to prioritize protest-based political expression over the structured dialogue models promoted by organizations like Bridge USA. This creates a persistent tension on campus between those advocating for direct confrontation and those seeking consensus-building forums.

Students at DePaul University can utilize the chapter's forthcoming nonpartisan information sheets to navigate the 2026 midterm election cycle. The group's shift toward community service and cultural events also offers new opportunities for local student involvement.

The takeaway

Bridge DePaul demonstrates how student groups can evolve their strategies to maintain engagement after initial formation. By focusing on cultural activities, the chapter aims to remain a sustainable space for dialogue through shifting political seasons.