Out of the 70 student organizations Quinnipiac University boasts, one in particular is nothing short of timely right now- the Quinnipiac Republicans. In an ongoing effort to highlight various under the radar Quinnipiac clubs, this week’s profile coincides with what is shaping up to be one of the most critical presidential elections American has ever seen.
Having been a fixture of Quinnipiac since 2003, the QU Republicans is a student run group that aims to gather awareness and show support for the Conservative Party. In the midst of the weekly debate fury and a month away from the actual election, student Caitlin Faford, vice chairman, managed to find the time to discuss her club’s main interests.
Being that 2008 is an election year, Faford has been very busy trying to make the most of it. But is the club’s plate full even during non-election years? In a word; yes.
“During non-election years, we have been the student organization on campus to host the September 11th memorial, sponsor Mock Debates with the QU Democrats, and participate in local, congressional, state and town elections,” Faford said. “We also run Support Our Troops drives and Thanksgiving food drives for local food banks in New Haven. We attend an annual Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington D.C. every spring semester as well.”
Faford mentioned that it was at this conference earlier this year where Mitt Romney conceded his presidential campaign. President Bush, Dick Cheney, and John McCain were all present, something she described as, “a thrilling and memorable event.”
Just a few weeks ago, the QU Republicans had the opportunity to travel out to Minnesota for the Republican National Convention. Chairman Katelyn Bermudez and members Todd Williams and David Saponara were the three in attendance.
The work doesn’t stop for Faford and her club back on campus either.
“The QU Republicans meet once a week, usually on Tuesday. Each year, we generally have a solid group of 15 to 20 members that become very active with the organization and continue throughout the year,” Faford said. Enrollment is easy and appreciated. “We are always looking for new members!”
On September 19, the QU Republicans participated in the MTV Voter Drive. The Real World’s Brooke and Syrus came to campus to spark voting interest among students.
As for upcoming events, along with the QU Democrats, the QU Republicans are sponsoring the Voter Registration drive from October 2-8 located in the Complex and CAS courtyards.
“Our hopes for this event are that we can get as many students registered to vote and also get them absentee ballots,” Faford said.
With all the bases covered about the club, Faford couldn’t resist a little political talk. When asked about the GOP candidate’s vice presidential pick, Faford said, “[Sarah Palin] is the only candidate on both tickets with executive leadership experience. Palin is a driven, motivated and proud American who, like McCain, will always put her country first. Not only does she bring gender diversity to the campaign, but she also provides geographical range. With her being from Alaska and on the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, Palin is very familiar with a topic that is going to be at the forefront of the election. She is the most well versed person to speak on the oil crisis regardless of whether we agree with her or not.”
That being said, whichever political party you support, the candidates need your vote now more than ever. With the help of the QU Republicans, make it happen this November.
