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"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."

Thus begins one of the most important political documents in American history. Adopted by the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia on September 17, 1787, following months of plans, heated debates, and compromises, the Constitution is the supreme document that forms the framework of the United States government.

Constitution Day is an opportunity for us to recognize the 39 brave, visionary men who changed the course of history and to continue their legacy in a new generation of Americans. On September 17^th this year, the University of Memphis will recognize our heritage with several special events.

Steven Mulroy, associate professor in the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law and second term Commissioner for Shelby County, District 5, will give a short presentation, “Constitutional Issues – Ripped from the Headlines!” at noon in the University Center’s Bluff Room (Room 304). Discussion and a question and answer period will follow Mulroy’s talk.

Voter registration forms will be available in the Atrium of the University Center from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. that day, so students, faculty, and staff who may not yet have registered to vote can do so. The handout of the forms is a project of the Memphis/Shelby County League of Women Voters, which encourages the informed and active participation of citizens in government.

Calvin Coolidge, 30^th president of the United States, once observed, “To live under the American Constitution is the greatest political privilege that was ever accorded to the human race.” With that in mind, and as we think about the blessing of freedom and the responsibilities that each of us has as citizens of this country, we encourage the entire University of Memphis community to join in the 2010 celebration of Constitution Day.