08/25/2025
SUNY Cortland will mark Constitution Day on Wednesday, Sept. 17, with three events to kick off a yearlong celebration of the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Declaration of Independence.
The university’s Galpin Institute for Civic Engagement will help lead the educational opportunities as well as others taking place throughout the 2025-26 academic year. The yearlong theme is “Agency in Advocacy through Collaboration.”
The Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, before it was signed by most delegates on Aug. 2, 1776. The document established the fundamental principles of American government, serving as a statement of individual rights for people in the United States and around the world.
Among the university’s Constitution Day events planned for Wednesday, Sept. 17:
- “The Declaration’s 250th: The Start of a Celebration”
12:30 to 1:30 p.m., Corey Union Fireplace Lounge
Three speakers will describe the importance of the U.S. Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution, and the importance of participating in civic decision-making in and between elections. Speakers include President Erik J. Bitterbaum, Cortland County Legislator Cathy Bischoff and City of Cortland Mayor Scott Steve. An overview of yearlong civics education activities also will be provided.
- “Write the Wrong”
4:30 to 6:00 p.m., Corey Union, Room 209
Student participants will be educated on composing email advocacy messages to elected officials. Resources and guidance will be provided during this session led by Michelle Winderman, a Dragons for Democracy student intern.
- “What Can You Say on Campus at a Public University or College? Free Speech, The Constitution and College Life”
2 to 3:30 p.m., online session through Zoom
This online session will explore the civic mission of public higher education, the importance of building civic discourse skills and recent challenges to free speech and civic discourse on American campuses. John Suarez, director of the Galpin Institute for Civic Engagement, will serve as a breakout facilitator. Joseph Anthony, assistant professor of political science, will serve on a four-person panel, sharing more about the value of civic discourse skills in career and civic readiness.
Contact the Galpin Institute for Civic Engagement at 607-753-4395 for more information on Constitution Day events or the university’s yearlong recognition of the Declaration of Independence.