Oakland Community College students looking to find their voice in politics have a new resource with IGNITE. The new chapter was founded this Winter semester by OCC alumnus Agatha Pinheiro, who is also a fellow for IGNITE, a national, non-partisan organization. The group is dedicated to building a movement of young women (and women identifying individuals) who are ready and eager to become the next generation of political leaders, organizers and policy makers.
IGNITE launched in 2010 to address the lack of women in elected office by building
a pipeline of next generation leaders who are poised to flex their political power.
It is currently the largest young women's political organization in the country with
college chapters across the country.
OCC Club Advisor and EMIT Administrative Specialist KimberLea Reid said the club is
a great way to connect students who want to make a difference in women’s equity, voter
access and civic engagement.
“I am so proud to be a part of this group. These young women are passionate, engaged
and blazing a trail,” said Reid.
OCC IGNITE Student President Iryna Olkhovetska said the natural spark of every member
is what makes IGNITE unique.
“Each of us brings to this group something unique that allows us to carry the values
of something right and bright. The work we have done since the beginning of last semester
has already been very interesting and informative. Being a part of IGNITE inspires
me to help others and become a better version of myself," she said.
Future events and opportunities planned through the new chapter include voter registration
resources, civic education and engagement, connecting with women in political power,
as well as professional networking and career development.
IGNITE is a college-wide student organization based at the Auburn Hills campus. Students
interested in learning more about the chapter can send an email to igniteocc@gmail.com. IGNITE chapter information and other OCC organizations and clubs can be found on
the College’s Student Organization page.
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About OCC
Offering nearly 100 degrees and certificates, OCC is Michigan’s largest multi-campus
community college and No. 1 transfer institution in the state. The College provides
academic, career training and enriching experiences, designed to empower students
to reach their potential and enhance our community. More than 1 million students have
enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. A seven-person Board of Trustees
governs OCC. Board members are elected on a non-partisan, at-large basis, serve as
volunteers and are not paid. Mission statement: OCC is committed to empowering our
students to succeed and advancing our community. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
Media Contact: Marketing & Communications | (248) 341-2020 contactus@oaklandcc.edu