The nation’s first-ever Student-Led Constitutional Convention, hosted by Arizona State University’s Center for Constitutional Design, saw participation from 110 student delegates selected from over 70 universities and colleges. Among these delegates were four students from The University of New Mexico (UNM): Alexsia Minetos, Gareth Ripol, Edward Spalione, and Nectaria Kurth. UNM's Professor Lawrence Jones, who teaches Constitutional Law, was also part of the mentoring faculty committee.
Professor Jones remarked on the selection of UNM students: “The fact that four students from the University of New Mexico were chosen to participate reflects highly on not only the students but on UNM itself, and the performance of all students in the UNM constituency was outstanding and admirable.”
The convention aimed to educate student delegates about the constitutional amendment process through collaborative efforts. Minetos highlighted this experience: "It was an incredible opportunity to connect and collaborate with so many students, each with a unique background and interests that informed their amendments and reasoning for submitting them."
Each delegate represented a randomly assigned state or territory and worked in committees to propose potential constitutional amendments. Minetos shared her learning experience: “I wasn’t aware of what other states were concerned with, and at the convention I learned a lot from someone who was from Kentucky.”
Spalione expressed optimism about future conventions: “I have great hope for future conventions and for the country to rectify the problems of the past and solidify a prosperous future."
Despite initial concerns about passing any amendments, Minetos emphasized the value in collaboration: “Even if we don’t pass anything, there’s value in collaboration and just hearing from everyone.” Ultimately, four out of 20 proposed amendments passed with a required 75 percent approval:
- An Equal Rights Amendment;
- An amendment recognizing tribal sovereignty;
- An amendment restricting gerrymandering;
- An amendment prohibiting private property taking except for public use with just compensation.
Ripol reflected on his participation: “The MCC was a worthwhile and profound experience, and I am humbled to have been selected to participate in this innovative project.”
Jones praised the students' conduct: “Specifically, the students' conduct and demeanor in meeting and working with other student delegates...was incredibly respectful, collegial, mature, professional, disciplined and honorable."
Jones concluded by noting that while non-binding, these amendments offer valuable insights for current leaders: "The results of the students’ efforts...can now be shared with our nation’s 'real-life' leaders as persuasive authority..."
Many attendees left with renewed perspectives on cooperation for meaningful change. Spalione added a personal note: "Knowing people are willing to fight that fight...is really heartening especially for my son and our future generations."