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Dear Recent Graduates of Penn State —

We are writing to you as students and soon-to-be alumni to explain why it’s important for you to vote in this year’s Board of Trustees election. The Penn State community is divided and students certainly notice. There are some alumni who are fixated on the past scandal and others who are looking to the future… our future.  You understand best the current student experience and alumni point of view so you have the chance to bridge the gap that exists and unite Penn Staters everywhere. We need you to stand with us and support the Upward State endorsed candidates.

Why? Because like so many of you, the Upward State team is looking forward to a brighter future for Penn State. Dan Cocco ‘08, Julie McHugh ‘86 and Matt Schuyler ‘87 want Penn State not to focus on the events of 2011, but rather on all of the remarkable strides we have made in the years since. As students we saw firsthand the great accomplishments we could all achieve by working together. We need Trustees who will choose to celebrate the best of Penn State. If you agree with us – that we must look to the future – we need you to make sure your voice is heard.

Students are doing their part by concentrating on advancing their education, winning national championships, dancing “for the kids”, and setting their sights on the moon! During the remaining few days in the election we hope all alumni – particularly recent graduates –take a few minutes to vote with students in mind.

Here is how…

STEP 1: Look for an email in your inbox with the subject line “PSU Alumni Trustee Election Ballot.”

If you can’t find it, request one online at www.psu.edu/trustees/2014election. You should receive a ballot by email within 24 hours or you may email [email protected] to follow up. (It’s important to follow up)

STEP 2: Open the email and click the unique voting link provided to you. Select three candidates and then click NEXT to review and submit your vote.

Our recommendation: Upward State endorsed candidates Dan Cocco ’08 (#3); Julie McHugh ’86 (#18); and Matt Schuyler ’87 (#21)

STEP 3: Tell your friends you voted! Please consider a post on social media to remind friends of their alumni responsibility to shape the future of Penn State! 

If you have already voted: thank you!  If you have not, there is still time as voting will continue until 8 a.m. on May 8. Please remember students are not allowed to vote and that is why the alumni voice  is critical to the future of Penn State.

Jordan Harris, History & Maggie Harding, Food Science