September 2023
STUDENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
Dear Students:
As you begin the fall term, either as new or returning students, I want to welcome you and wish you much success in your studies for the coming year.
As President of the University of California, I also want to take this opportunity to call your attention to "Constitution Day."
In 2005, the federal government enacted a law that requires all schools receiving federal funds to hold an educational program on the United States Constitution each year on September 17, Constitution Day.
Because most UC campuses begin their fall terms in late September, after Constitution Day, I invite you to take a few moments to look over UC's Constitution Day website. I hope this brief exploration will spark your curiosity and broaden your knowledge of and appreciation for this historic and important document.
As students of the University of California, you are privileged to have ready access to a range of historical, political, sociological, and legal perspectives on the study of the U.S. Constitution. I urge you to explore UC's print and electronic library holdings on the Constitution, take a Constitution-related course outside your major, e.g., history, political science, law/legal studies, or engage in a research-oriented enterprise such as independent study.
I hope you enjoy broadening your knowledge of the Constitution during the coming academic year.
Sincerely,
Michael V. Drake, MD
President