Hauenstein Center discussion on Constitution begins programming season

The Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies will kick off its 2024-2025 programming by welcoming Nicole Hemmer, associate professor of history and director of the Carolyn T. and Robert M. Rogers Center for the American Presidency at Vanderbilt University, for a conversation on the U.S. Constitution.

The Constitution Day event, titled "The Constitution vs. Democracy,"will take place at 6 p.m. on September 17 at the DeVos Center on the Pew Grand Rapids Campus.

This year, Hauenstein's programming revolves around the theme of "E pluribus unum," the traditional motto of the United States. Through presentations by authors, lecturers and historians, the center aims to provide context on how generations of Americans have interpreted this ideal.

Hemmer's presentation will explore the tension between the Constitution and the popular understanding of democracy, and what these dynamics mean for contemporary politics.

In addition to her presentation, Hemmer will serve as the Hauenstein Center's Scholar-in-Residence, a new pilot program which will bring a distinguished presidential scholar to the GVSU community for an academic year. During her tenure, Hemmer will share insights on the U.S. presidency and engage with the Hauenstein community to deepen their understanding of the nation's highest office.

"I'm so excited to share my expertise and learn from the Hauenstein Center community during the upcoming year," Hemmer said. "Together, we will explore the theme of 'E pluribus unum;' out of many, one. We'll wrestle with what that ideal means for us in the world today."

Hemmer will also produce several episodes of The Hauenstein Center Collection podcast series, available on Apple Podcastsand Spotify. She'll talk with GVSU experts and community partners and explore the Hauenstein's programming theme and its relevance for Americans today.