Through Elon Volunteers!, Lindsay Bialecki '26 has developed a deeper understanding of leadership as service.
Lindsay Bialecki ’26 walked onto Elon’s campus knowing she was destined to make a meaningful impact. Her journey soon began with the Kernodle Center for Civic Life, home to Elon Volunteers! where, as a first-year student, she stepped into a leadership role with Elon Votes. What started as an opportunity to get involved became the foundation for her Elon experience.
When Bialecki arrived at Elon, she became a member of the Paideia Living and Learning Community in the East Neighborhood which focuses on civic and politics. This became a place she felt she truly belonged and where she felt surrounded by people with similar passions. Before coming to Elon, Bialecki explored her interests in politics by working on local political campaigns, making her leap into Elon Votes just make sense. Elon Votes provided the perfect balance of her passions by strengthening democratic participation while educating and empowering fellow students.
Bialecki ‘26 has served for three years as co-coordinator of Elon Votes, as she has watched the program evolve through different elections and historical political moments. While she has always valued the act of voting itself, the most rewarding part of her role has been witnessing students engage in the democratic process for the first time.
“Time and time again, students tell us this is their first time registering to vote or casting a ballot,” she shared. “Seeing your peers step into their voice and participate in something that is the cornerstone of civic life is incredibly meaningful.”
The Fall 2024 semester stands out as particularly impactful. During a historic election season, Lindsay and her team expanded their outreach in ambitious ways. Elon Votes hosted campus-wide voter registration drives, organized multiple weekly events, created new educational materials and delivered dozens of presentations. They were especially intentional about reaching students who have historically been underrepresented in voting spaces. Students began asking thoughtful questions and engaging in conversations they may have once felt too nervous to initiate.
“Someone told us, ‘You guys are everywhere all the time,’” Lindsay recalled. “And it was true.” Through collaboration and persistence, the team fostered a campus environment where civic participation felt accessible and energizing.
Bialecki’s leadership experience also extended beyond campus. Working alongside the Alamance County Board of Elections and supporting the early voting site on south campus revealed the broader impact of community partnerships. Lindsay observed students and local residents connecting in line, forming conversations that bridged differences and strengthened community ties.
Through Elon Volunteers!, Lindsay has developed a deeper understanding of leadership as service. She believes civic engagement is not just about casting a ballot but about cultivating informed, active citizens who show up in all areas of their communities.
“Decisions are made by those who show up,” she emphasized. “Leadership means helping others find the courage to do just that.”
For students considering involvement with Elon Volunteers!, Lindsay encourages them to take the first step. What once felt intimidating quickly became her home on campus. She credits the Kernodle Center staff and her fellow student leaders with shaping her professionalism, confidence and ability to lead meaningful initiatives.