As the 2026 midterm elections approach, TU students, faculty and staff have two powerful resources designed to simplify the voting process and help them stay informed every step of the way.

The web-based TurboVote platform offers the entire TU community election resources, and the newly launched Go Vote Maryland does the same for Maryland voters only via an app.

What is TurboVote and how can it help students vote?

TurboVote serves as a one-stop resource that helps students manage important election deadlines and voting requirements. Through Towson University's dedicated TurboVote portal, students can sign up for election reminders, get assistance with voter registration, update their address and receive guidance on voting by mail. It also provides an overview of what’s on the ballot, including offices and ballot measures.

The platform is especially helpful for college students who may be voting away from home, navigating different state election rules or balancing busy academic schedules. By providing personalized reminders and timely information, TurboVote helps ensure students don't miss key deadlines leading up to Election Day.

What is Go Vote MD?

Go Vote MD is a new voter resource app launched through a partnership among the Maryland State Board of Elections, the Center for Democracy and Civic Engagement at the University of Maryland and Towson University's Empowering Secure Elections Lab.

The app was designed to provide Maryland voters with easy access to accurate, trustworthy election information in one convenient location. Like TurboVote, features include polling place lookup, voter registration status checks, mail-in ballot request information, election calendars, frequently asked questions and the ability to report election misinformation.

By directing users to official and verified election resources, the app supports informed participation and helps voters confidently navigate the election process.

Users can download the app at the App Store or Google Play.

How did Towson University students help create the app?

Student researchers in Towson University's Empowering Secure Elections Lab helped design, code and test the mobile application in collaboration with Maryland State Board of Elections officials. The lab, led by professors Natalie M. Scala and Josh Dehlinger, conducts research focused on election security, voter education and misinformation.

The project provided students with a unique experiential learning opportunity that connected classroom knowledge with real-world impact. Working directly with election officials, students helped develop a tool designed to strengthen voter education and public trust while serving Maryland residents across the state.

Through the Empowering Secure Elections Lab, TU students and faculty are exploring ways to improve election security, combat misinformation and make reliable voting information more accessible. The app represents one of the latest examples of that work, translating research into a practical resource that voters can use every day.

The initiative also highlights Towson University's leadership in applied learning, civic engagement and public service, giving students hands-on experience while contributing to the broader public good.