Constitution Day: An Opportunity for Honors Colleges to Promote Civic Engagement

The United States Constitution is the bedrock upon which government and society rest, yet its precepts remain generally unfamiliar to contemporary college students. Considering the extent of its impact and the misinformation regarding its purpose, content, efficacy, and limits, the authors provide suggestions for civic learning based on this seminal document. While all American educational institutions receiving federal funding must celebrate the U.S. Constitution each year on or near September 17th, research suggests that comprehensive and integrative instruction is scarce. Citing a lack of formal Constitution Day programming among honors colleges, the authors present a multi-modal framework for honors students to conduct research, stimulate critical thinking, showcase their findings, and engage in civic dialogues. Historical underpinnings of Constitution Day legislation are provided, and curricular guidelines are included.