Hokies serve their communities on Election Day

Two members of the Hokie Nation recently shared their perspectives as Virginia officers of election in precincts that include Virginia Tech’s Blacksburg campus.

Rewa Mariger, assistant commandant with the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets, has served as a poll worker for 24 years. After recently retiring from Virginia Tech Services, David Wilson began serving this year.

Student voting information can be found at VT Engage.

How did you get involved as an officer of elections?

Mariger: I remember going to vote, and because I was at the wrong precinct, instead of telling me to go to the correct precinct, where my vote would have counted, they had me vote provisional, and my vote didn't count. When I learned more and realized what had happened, I became energized to make sure this didn't happen to others - by trying to educate college students about the voting process and making sure voters understand what their choices mean on Election Day.

Wilson: I was looking for ways to get more involved in community service after I retired from Virginia Tech Services last year.

What is your role?

Mariger: As a chief election officer, my job is to keep a calm demeanor and be efficient managing the poll stations to make sure we are providing a streamlined and hassle-free voting experience. I spend a lot of time on Election Day trying to educate students about what their decisions about voting will mean. It gets complicated for students because their addresses change. What will it mean to vote at school versus home? What will it mean if you're graduating? Is that what you mean to do?

Wilson: I help Montgomery County with their early voting process by checking in voters, providing ballots, and answering questions. I will also work at a precinct on Election Day.

Why do you serve?

Mariger: It is one of the most hopeful ways I spend my time. Our imperfect democratic system can work if we care enough to participate and help others through the voting process so that their individual vote will count.

Wilson: My community is important to me. Serving is a way for me to make a difference locally for a good cause.

What is your favorite part of serving?

Mariger: Getting to help voters make sure their vote will count. The worst part ever was having to tell a student that their vote wouldn't count because they didn't take the time to figure out where they were registered. Same-day registration should make that a thing of the past, but it may extend the lines on Election Day.

Wilson: I love getting to meet and interact with so many people from our community. When so many people are happy because they have the opportunity to vote, it makes me happy. I have especially enjoyed helping people who are voting for the first time.