Celebrating Civic Responsibility and Constitutional Values

Earlier this semester, Monroe celebrated Constitution Day and Citizenship Day at the Bronx campus, gathering students, faculty, and staff in Mintz Auditorium for an afternoon of reflection on the U.S. Constitution’s enduring relevance. 

This annual event, hosted by the School of Criminal and Social Justice (SCSJ), centered this year on the theme “The Constitution: How and Why It Matters.”

The event proved both engaging and thought-provoking for many students, with Nursing student Aaliyah Makodila calling it a “truly eye-opening” experience. She noted, “My favorite part was the opportunity for students to ask questions and openly share their views on the Constitution. This dialogue made the event engaging and meaningful, as it gave young adults a platform to express their perspectives on such an important document. It reminded me that the Constitution is not just a historical text but a foundation for our future, shaping the rights and freedoms we all depend on.”

The program began with a warm welcome from SCSJ Associate Dean Dr. Paul Lichtbraun, followed by pre-recorded remarks titled “Why Does the Constitution Matter?” delivered by the Hon. Kathy J. King, a judge on the New York State Supreme Court. Students then heard from Jody McCalla, Esq., Director of Monroe’s Paralegal Program, who drew connections between constitutional principles and their practical implications in students' daily lives and future careers.

The highlight of the event was the keynote presentation, “The Promise of Our Constitution: How and Why It Matters,” by Hon. Milton A. Tingling, retired New York Supreme Court Justice and former New York County Clerk. Judge Tingling offered a compelling perspective on how the Constitution continues to play a vital role in balancing the demands of tradition and progress within American democracy.

Following the presentations, students participated in an Open Forum, where they shared their own thoughts on what the Constitution means to them. The event concluded with a memorable moment as Professor George Chin made a guest appearance dressed as George Washington, providing closing remarks that added a touch of historical charm to the day.

In addition to the day’s reflections, Monroe University launched its annual Constitution Day Essay Competition, inviting both students and alumni to submit essays on “The U.S. Constitution – How and Why It Matters.” The competition encouraged participants to explore the Constitution’s historical roots, its ongoing evolution through amendments, and the profound impact of living in a world without a written Constitution.

Director Faye Roberts-Paul emphasized how the Constitution Day program ties into Monroe's broader commitment to civic engagement, connecting it to the International Day of Peace observance on September 25. “Both events remind us that education and civic engagement go hand in hand,” she remarked. “Acting for peace means being informed, voting, and taking responsibility for the kind of world we want to live in.”

Through dialogue, reflection, and thoughtful engagement, Monroe University’s Constitution Day celebration served as a powerful reminder of the Constitution’s relevance in shaping the present and future of our society.