American Democracy Project at MTSU

Graduating civically engaged, globally responsible citizens.

Empowering Students for Active Citizenship

At Middle Tennessee State University, the American Democracy Project (ADP) is a nationally recognized initiative designed to foster civic engagement, leadership, and informed citizenship among undergraduate students. As part of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU), ADP equips students with the knowledge and tools to become proactive citizens in a democratic society.

Since 2003, MTSU has proudly participated in this movement, working to integrate civic responsibility into academic programs, extracurricular activities, and campus culture. Today, more than 250 campuses nationwide contribute to this effort, helping shape future leaders committed to making a meaningful impact.

Our Mission & Goals

At MTSU, the American Democracy Project is dedicated to:

• Inspiring Civic Engagement – Empowering students to understand and participate in democracy through education, discussions, and action.
• Encouraging Voter Participation – Facilitating voter registration drives and informational events to ensure students make their voices heard.
• Building Leadership & Advocacy – Strengthening civic education in classrooms and beyond, encouraging students to take initiative in their communities.
• Creating National Conversations – Connecting institutions nationwide to share best practices in civic engagement and democratic learning.

Through campus-wide programs, leadership workshops, and collaborations with faculty, ADP fosters a culture of engagement and activism, equipping students with the skills and motivation to drive meaningful change in society.

Why Civic Engagement Matters

According to Thomas Ehrlich’s definition in Civic Responsibility and Higher Education, civic engagement means working to improve communities through political and non-political processes. ADP encourages students to think critically about social issues, public policy, and active citizenship, helping them become responsible leaders who shape the future.

Get Involved Today!

• Join Our Events – From Constitution Day celebrations to civic action workshops, we offer events that inspire political awareness and activism.
• Register to Vote – Stay informed and engaged in local, state, and national elections.
• Enhance Your Education – Explore courses and discussions that integrate civic engagement into academic learning.

Ready to make a difference? Visit our office at the Paul W. Martin Sr. Honors Building, Room 221, or contact us for more information.

Contact MTSU’s American Democracy Project

ADP is located in the Paul W. Martin Sr. Honors Building, room 221. Regular office hours are 8 am to 4:30 pm Monday through Friday.

📞 Phone: (615) 904-8241

📠 Fax: (615) 904-8263

📧 Email: amerdem@mtsu.edu

MTSU’s American Democracy Project in the news

• Former Vice President Mike Pence connects Jan. 6 experience to democracy at MTSU Constitution Day event
• Mike Pence, former VP speaks at MTSU Constitution Day Event
• MTSU Receives National Seal For Action Plan That Promotes Student Voting
• Two MTSU Students Named Inaugural Andrew Goodman Foundation Ambassadors
• MTSU Tops in Voter Registration by WGNS Radio
• ‘Educating our youth’: MTSU students push for on-campus polling location by Mye Owens for WKRN ABC News Nashville
• In a “three-peat” MTSU is named #1 in Tennessee for Public University Voter Registration
• Read about Dr. Mary Evins’ involvement with the American Democracy Project in her own words.
• Tennessee Secretary of State presents MTSU with top voter registration award (2020)

MTSU recognized by ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge for 2024 “Highly Established” Action Plan

“ALL IN has developed this seal of recognition for higher education institutions with strong action plans to increase nonpartisan democratic engagement by promoting civic learning, political engagement, and college student voter participation. Action plan strength is determined by reviewing campus action plans with the Strengthening American Democracy Action Planning Rubric.” 

– allinchallenge.org