State and local decisions are reshaping campus civic access and cultural programming. North Carolina’s elections board rejected plans to host early‑voting centers on several university campuses, including North Carolina A&T, and voted to close others—prompting student protests and concerns about barriers for students who lack transportation. Board members cited practical issues like parking; supporters said the move will suppress student turnout. In Indianapolis, Indiana University–Indianapolis canceled its long‑running MLK Dinner this year citing budget constraints, prompting student and affinity-group criticism and a campus task force to 'reimagine' affinity dinners. Students flagged the cancellation as part of a pattern after the university closed its DEI office and reassigned student organizations. These actions highlight how election administration, budget choices and reorganization of student‑affinity functions can quickly alter campus civic engagement and community trust. Campus leaders should coordinate with student-affairs, legal counsel and external partners to safeguard access to civic participation and preserve cultural traditions.