Center for the Constitution

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

The Robert H. Smith Center for the Constitution at James Madison's Montpelier offers world-class on-site and Web-enabled educational programming. The Center’s goal is to inspire participation in civic dialogue, improve the public’s understanding of the founding principles of the United States, and enable citizens to deepen their understanding of and participation in our democracy.

Interested in our online courses?

Residential Programs

Elected Officials

Various Dates & Times

No group in American society has a more direct responsibility to the Constitution than elected officials. These seminars help to examine and reconnect to constitutional principles as they relate to their elected positions.

Learn More Apply today

Free

Law Enforcement

Various Dates & Times

The Center for the Constitution programs help law enforcement officers understand that they are not simply limited in power by the Constitution, but that their power is also enabled by it.

Learn More Apply now

Educators

Next Seminar: Congress, the Constitution & Contemporary Politics - November 11-13, 2016

The Robert H. Smith Center for the Constitution at James Madison's Montpelier offers intensive, content-rich programs taught by nationally recognized scholars.

Learn More Apply Today

Congress, the Constitution, & Contemporary Politics

November 11-13, 2016

Congress, the Constitution, and Contemporary Politics explores the theoretical foundations of the legislative branch, the powers of Congress, and the expansion and change of congressional power over time.

Learn More Apply Now

Native Peoples and the Constitution

March 24-26, 2017

This seminar tracks the evolution and meaning of Native sovereignty from pre-contact times, to early and sustained intrusions of European powers, to the manner in which federal and state governments address this status today

Learn More Apply Now

Slavery & the Constitution

April 7-9, 2017

This seminar examines American slavery as a historical reality, an affront to the country's promises of liberty and equality, and a political problem.

Learn More Apply Now

The Presidency & the Constitution

March 10-12, 2017

This seminar focuses on the idea of the presidency under the Constitution and how that office has evolved over time.

Learn More Apply Now