The University of South Carolina Upstate will convene distinguished legal scholars and guests for a Constitution Day forum exploring the importance of American democracy in commemoration of the country’s 250th year.
The USC Upstate Chancellor’s Distinguished Lecture Series, in partnership with the Willie T. Smith Jr. Lecture Series of Delta Beta Boulé of Sigma Pi Phi, will host “America at 250: The Promise of the Declaration & the Future of American Democracy.”
The event will be held from 6-8 p.m. Sept. 16 at the Humanities and Performing Arts Center (HPAC) Theater. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.
The program is free to attend, but guests are required to RSVP due to limited seating.
As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this special Chancellor’s Distinguished Lecture will examine the enduring ideals at the heart of the American experiment—liberty, equality, justice, and democratic self-government—and consider their meaning for the nation’s future.
“As we celebrate Constitution Day during our nation’s ongoing commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, we are reminded that the Constitution and the ideals of our founding continue to shape both our democracy and our responsibilities as citizens,” said USC Upstate Chancellor Bennie L. Harris.
“This distinguished lecture brings together respected leaders in law, justice, and public service to explore the enduring principles of liberty, equality, and self-government and their relevance for the future of our country. USC Upstate is proud to provide a forum for thoughtful dialogue, civic engagement, and the exchange of ideas as we reflect on our past and consider the opportunities that lie ahead.”
A special guest panel will follow the lecture.
Panelists include professor Paul Butler, Georgetown University Law Center; professor Marvin Chochotte, Dartmouth College; Dean William C. Hubbard, University of South Carolina Joseph F. Rice School of Law; and professor Trina Jones, Duke University School of Law.
The lecture series is presented by the USC Upstate Chief Justice Donald W. Beatty Center for Justice and Society.
“The Beatty Center is committed to creating experiential learning opportunities for students outside of the classroom,” said Allison Ellis, director of the Beatty Center for Justice & Society. “Bringing together leading scholars for Constitution Day allows students to learn more about our nation’s founding principles and the role they can play in strengthening democratic institutions.”
A Partnership Rooted in Leadership, Justice, and Service
The Willie T. Smith Jr. Lecture Series honors the enduring legacy of Judge Willie T. Smith Jr., one of South Carolina’s respected civic and business leaders, whose commitment to civil rights, education, and community empowerment helped advance opportunity and strengthen communities across the state.
The Chief Justice Donald W. Beatty Center for Justice and Society at USC Upstate honors the legacy of retired South Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice Donald W. Beatty and advances education and public engagement around justice, law, public service, and democratic society.
Together with the Chancellor’s Distinguished Lecture Series, these partners bring to USC Upstate a signature national conversation connecting history, leadership, justice, and the future of American democracy.