Scenes From an Unconventional Convention

At Ohio Wesleyan's 2024 Mock Convention in February (this year a Republican convention), students looked beyond the presidential candidates running at the time and nominated Utah Senator Mitt Romney to head their ticket. They also debated and amended a Republican Party platform that students had written following a series of policy-related panel discussions in the fall. Several GOP current and former officeholders, including former Ohio Lieutenant Gov. Nancy Hollister, spoke to conventiongoers, encouraging the students to be active and engaged citizens and to vote at every opportunity. OWU's Mock Convention tradition dates back 140 years—making it the nation's oldest collegiate mock convention. It has been held in conjunction with nearly every presidential election since 1920.

Assistant Professor of Politics and Government Brianna Mack (standing) confers on stage with Mock Convention Executive Directors Timothy Page '25 (left) and Sophie Gipson '24. Mack served as Mock Convention advisor this year. (Photos by Paul Vernon)
Representing Florida, Raymond Craig '27 states his case while Saharla Loyan '25 awaits. At the conclusion of the convention, Saharla received the Theodore Roosevelt Domestic Policy Debate Award.
Ella Holtsberry '27 presents platform testimony during the first day of Mock Convention. Ella received the Bush Economic Policy Debate Award for her contributions at the event.
Raazia Aamir '26 addresses the convention while Digvijay Tekade '24 waits his turn. Both Raazia and Digvijay participate in student government.