From the president
Lilly McNally, a junior at Wagner College, is majoring in Sociology and minoring in Arts and Design, as well as Civic Engagement. She is intentional in linking her interest in policy with her commitment to social justice, both in her academic work and co-curricular activities. Lilly McNally is determined to find ways to spur her generation to influence the future of our country through electoral engagement. Since 2024, Lilly McNally has interned with the League of Women Voters and supported Wagner Votes, a non-partisan voter education and registration initiative at the College. In this process, she has found that having personal conversations with seemingly disengaged young voters can make a big difference. Lilly McNally strives to learn about what matters to them and shows how their votes can impact these particular areas. She thinks that having these personal conversations are especially important when young people are exposed to media and some voices from older generations who can be dismissive of young people.
Personal Statement
I was first introduced to Bryan Stevenson’s memoir, Just Mercy, in high school. Before reading it, I felt indifferent toward the U.S. criminal justice system and uneducated about the death penalty. I assumed it functioned as it should. But learning about wrongful convictions sparked an overwhelming anger in me, which fuels my desire to advocate and educate. I chose to study Sociology because I wanted a deeper understanding of how inequality operates in everyday life. I knew that with this knowledge, I could bring meaningful insight and solutions to the conversation. My Sociology courses reminded me of the work Stevenson does through the Equal Justice Initiative and other similar organizations. I came to understand the importance of civic engagement, which led me to work with the League of Women Voters of the City of New York and Wagner Votes. Being hands-on in my community was empowering. I could see the difference I was making, even on a small scale. That experience continues to motivate me to work harder and expand my impact. I aim to make a difference in individual lives, just as Bryan Stevenson did for Walter McMillian.