A special Constitution Day program for college students was piloted this year featuring an engaging panel discussion on the courts and the Constitution. “More Than Words…” was held at Florida Atlantic University Wilkes Honors College in Jupiter. Florida Supreme Court Justice Barbara Pariente, Judge Cymonie Rowe (15th Judicial Circuit), and FAU Associate Dean Dr. Mark Tunick participated as panelists in the program. FAU undergraduate students and faculty along with high school students from Palm Beach Lakes Community High School Law Academy attended the two hour session. The event, which included a luncheon, was sponsored by the Palm Beach County chapter of the Florida Association of Women Lawyers, the FAU MacArthur Campus Student Government Association, and the Informed Voters, Fair Judges Project.
The presentation explored the U.S. Constitution while discussing the unique role of the judicial branch, judicial decision making, and current challenges to fair, impartial, and independent courts. Panelists interacted with the audience through a series of questions and activities. The presentation model and materials were created for Constitution Day but are relevant for use any time throughout the year. The National Association of Women Judges Informed Voters, Fair Judges Project provides a variety of materials and resources to utilize with public presentations addressing civic and community organizations, university forums, and a wide range of other audiences. Each presentation provides a corresponding PowerPoint, activity overview, and handouts. A special the Constitution Day PSA was provided on the IVP website. To review the materials, visit https://ivp.nawj.org/2017/08/11/access-to-constitution-day-resources/
For information about the Informed Voters, Fair Judges Project please contact info@ivp.nawj.org.
