Former NASA Astronaut Encouraged El Paso Student Voting
Danny Olivas visited El Paso Community College to promote civic engagement among the student body.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Civic Engagement
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Former NASA astronaut Danny Olivas visited the El Paso Community College Valle Verde Campus on Monday. The event, part of the national VOTE FOR FREEDOM tour, sought to boost voter turnout among young people.
Why it matters
The VOTE FOR FREEDOM tour aims to increase participation in democratic processes among college students. By leveraging high-profile figures, organizers hope to inspire young voters to exercise their right to vote.
More than 100 former astronauts are participating in the VOTE FOR FREEDOM college tour to encourage student participation. The effort aims to boost civic engagement among young voters across the country.
The players
Danny Olivas
He is a former NASA astronaut and a native of El Paso who graduated from Burges High School.
El Paso Community College
It is a public community college serving the El Paso region through multiple campuses including Valle Verde.
The details
Danny Olivas, a native of El Paso and Burges High School alumnus, participated in a moderated fireside chat with students, faculty, and staff. The event was organized by the EPCC Student Government Association and the Office of Campus Leadership & Student Life.
Timeline
September 28, 2026: The visit took place at the Valle Verde Campus.
Need to Know
This visit is part of the VOTE FOR FREEDOM national college tour, which coordinates high-profile speakers to visit campuses. The initiative follows a established pattern of using public figures to drive voter turnout in academic environments.
Students at El Paso Community College gain direct access to advocacy resources and information on how to register and vote. This engagement effort aims to simplify the voting process and reduce barriers for young residents.
The takeaway
Engaging directly with students on campus remains a primary strategy for increasing voter turnout among younger demographics. Local community members can continue to monitor their campus life offices for upcoming information regarding registration deadlines.
Further reading
Find more local updates in the Civic Engagement section.
Live Poll
Do you believe non-partisan outreach campaigns effectively encourage young people in your area to vote?
