9/17/2026
Dear Campus Community,
Today, Sept. 17, we join institutions across the country in observing Constitution Day, marking the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution in 1787. It is a day to reflect on the rights, responsibilities, and democratic principles that shape our collective story, as well as our shared duty to participate actively in civic life.
Civic engagement is central to our mission as a liberal arts university. Whether you are learning about our founding documents, examining critical issues in the classroom, or making your voice heard at the ballot box, your participation strengthens our campus and the broader community.
In support of Constitution Day, as described below, we are pleased to offer two opportunities for information and involvement: we have free pocket Constitutions available in Wheelock Student Center, and we invite students to record a standing mic-style video with a Constitution-related prompt.
For students who want to be more actively engaged today, please look for the standing mic outside of the Wheelock Student Center:
- Location: outside Wheelock Student Center
- Time: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- What’s Available: See how many of the 27 constitutional amendments you can name — no Googling!
To help you learn more about the university’s civic engagement programs and opportunities for involvement, we encourage you to come meet the members of the Civic Engagement team who are hosting an informational table today in the Wheelock Student Center:
- Location: Wheelock Student Center
- Time: Noon to 1 p.m.
- What’s Available: Pick up a free pocket Constitution and cookie, while learning more about voter registration and other programs and projects of the civic engagement team.
Thank you for your commitment to thoughtful inquiry and active citizenship.
Warm regards,
Joanna Carey Cleveland | Vice President and General Counsel,
Chief of Staff, and Secretary to the Board of Trustees