Annual Constitution Day Celebration Gives Students History Lesson and Inspiration for Civic Engagement

Earlier today, we held our annual Constitution Day celebration on our New York campuses. This year’s theme, “The Promise of Our Constitution and Democracy: Using Our Voices to Engage in Civil Discourse” provided the backdrop for the day’s activities. 

Held in the Mintz Auditorium and Gaddy Hall at the Bronx and New Rochelle campuses, respectively, the event recognized and celebrated democracy, civic engagement, and the history of the Constitution and its impact on the United States.   

Students who attended the event were treated to lunch and an exhibition that included speeches by Monroe faculty and staff. Bronx students heard from Evan Frankl, the campus librarian, who emphasized the importance of civic engagement while highlighting the history of voting and its importance in a functioning democracy.  

School of Criminal and Social Justice Dean Guylaine Harrison called the celebration a “wonderful privilege,” emphasizing Monroe’s student-centered approach as integral to the day’s success.   

“We hosted a terrific program that emphasized student engagement and collaborative learning. Staff and faculty encouraged students to reflect upon the great gifts of our democracy -- life, liberty, freedom, rule of law and prosperity,” Dean Harrison said.   

Dean Harrison said she saw several students leaving the event energized by the discussion, voicing their interest in becoming more civically engaged in their communities.

“Students were empowered to register and vote, learn about the impact of laws and policies on their lives and futures, and use their education for the betterment of society,” she said.  

Both campuses held a voter registration drive as part of the Constitution Day activities, with nearly 120 Monroe students registering to vote today. Saphire Small, MSW, Youth Impact Coordinator with Bronx Community Solutions, led the Bronx campus drive and Mount Vernon (NY) Deputy Police Commissioner Jennifer Lackard spearheaded the New Rochelle registration effort through her work with the Delta Sigma Theta sorority.  

Closing remarks came from Dr. Paul Lichtbraun, Associate Dean of the School of Criminal and Social Justice. The students left with a personal copy of the Constitution and were encouraged to spend time before leaving to view the exhibition of pictures and phrases.  

George Washington (who bore a striking resemblance to Criminal and Social Justice Professor George Chin on that day) also attended the event, signaling an implicit approval from the most recognizable Founding Father of the Monroe Constitution Day celebration. No cherry trees were harmed during the event.  

Monroe is also hosting a 2024 Constitution Day Essay Competition. Students interested in participating must respond to a prompt regarding holding leaders accountable. The winner of the competition will receive a $100 gift card. 

More voter registration drives are planned.