WICHITA, Kan. – In an effort to encourage and enable all of its student-athletes to exercise their right to vote, the American Athletic Conference has announced that Election Day, Tuesday, November 3, will be a day off from competition and other athletic activities.

"The right of every citizen to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy, and the ability of our student-athletes to exercise that right and civic duty is enormously important," said American Commissioner Mike Aresco. "I applaud our schools for removing any potential impediments to voting, and for supporting the participation of our student-athletes in the celebration of our republic."

The American, in conjunction with members of its Racial Equality Action Group and its Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, will also work to provide voter registration and educational materials to the conference's student-athletes. Student-athletes will also have access to tools and resources that describe early voting protocols as well as absentee ballot requirements and deadlines.

"We are proud of this initiative and the opportunity it provides our student-athletes," said Darron Boatright, Wichita State Director of Athletics. "We will help educate them on voting procedures including registration, online forms and absentee ballots through our Diversity and Inclusion Council and Shocker LIFE program."