Troy University’s Pre-Law Society hosted its annual Constitution Day program on Sept. 18 in HAL Hall of Honor, featuring The Honorable Chad W. Bryan, U.S. Magistrate Judge for the Middle District of Alabama.
The event began with TROY’s vocal jazz ensemble, frequency, performing the National Anthem. Pre-Law Society officers then led the program, which concluded with the announcement of the Constitution Day essay contest winner.
In his remarks, Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., Chancellor of Troy University, underscored the importance of reflection on the nation’s founding principles. “We cannot take for granted the foundation of this country,” Dr. Hawkins said. “The Constitution stands at the heart of who we are as Americans, and occasions like this remind us of the responsibility we have to safeguard our democracy.”
Judge Bryan’s lecture centered on the preamble to the Constitution and the document’s continuing role in shaping American life. “The framers were setting out a document that was going to be different from anything the world had known before,” Bryan said. “It was designed not just for their time but for ourselves and our posterity. The Constitution remains the glue that binds us together as a people despite our differences.”
He emphasized that the Constitution is both timeless and adaptable. “It has endured for more than two centuries because it was written to be applied to circumstances the framers could never have imagined,” Bryan said. “Whether it is questions about technology, equality or security, the Constitution provides the framework for how we answer those challenges as a nation.”
Bryan also reflected on his experiences presiding over naturalization ceremonies, describing them as some of the most meaningful moments of his judicial service. “For those of us fortunate enough to be born into citizenship, it is easy to take it for granted,” he said. “But when you see the faces of men and women who worked so hard to earn their citizenship, it reminds you that freedom is not free and that the Constitution is a living promise of liberty.”
Dr. Adam Rutkowski, assistant professor of political science and faculty advisor for the Pre-Law Society, noted the level of preparation that goes into hosting the event each fall. “As soon as students return to campus in August, we start talking about Constitution Day,” Rutkowski said. “There is a lot of coordination involved, from helping students with their remarks to making sure the right people are invited, but the students always rise to the occasion. They work incredibly hard to make this event meaningful.”
The Constitution Day program highlighted Troy University’s commitment to civic engagement while offering students the chance to learn directly from leaders in the legal field.
