Distinguished Speaker Series Hosting Renowned Constitutional Scholar

Amar will explore the topic America's Constitutional Conversation Over the Centuries: Making and Remaking the Law of the Land on Tuesday, Sept. 25, at 4 p.m. in the Power Center Ballroom. Free and open to the public, a cocktail reception will follow.

“Professor Akhil Reed Amar is one of the most influential constitutional scholars of our time, and it is an honor to feature him as this year’s Distinguished Speaker,” said Kline Center Director Erin Karsman. “His perspective will deepen our understanding of the Constitution and spark thoughtful dialogue among our attendees.” 

Duquesne President Ken Gormley and Justice David N. Wecht of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania will offer the welcome and introduction at the event.

After graduating summa cum laude from Yale College and Yale Law School, Amar joined the Yale faculty at age 26 and is the only living professor to have earned the University’s “triple crown” for scholarship, teaching and alumni service. His work has been cited in over 50 Supreme Court cases and honored by both the American Bar Association and the Federalist Society. Amar also served as an informal consultant for The West Wing, and his scholarship has been featured on major broadcasts including The Colbert Report, Morning Joe and Fox News.

“Now in its fourth year, the Kline Center’s Distinguished Speaker Series continues to offer judges, lawyers and students the opportunity to learn from nationally recognized experts in the law,” Karsman added. “The reception that follows extends the conversation and makes it a true community-building event.” 

The Distinguished Speaker Series is approved for one credit of Pennsylvania Continuing Judicial Education for judges and one credit of Pennsylvania Continuing Legal Education for attorneys.

Learn more and RSVP to attend the 2025 Distinguished Speaker Series.