Eileen Gauna Professor Emerita | UNM School of Law Clinical Programs
The Marshall-Brennan Constitutional Literacy Project recently held a Constitution Day celebration on September 27, 2024. The event saw participation from over 100 individuals, including students from Atrisco Heritage Academy, West Mesa High School, and Valley High School. The project is designed to empower law students to provide civic education in public high schools across New Mexico. It aims to inspire young people from underrepresented communities by enhancing their understanding of the legal system, improving critical thinking skills, and exploring career opportunities.
During the Constitution Day celebration, participating high school students took part in various activities. They enjoyed a tour of the school and participated in "Know Your Rights" group sessions. Additionally, there was a Q&A session with current law students that offered insights into the realities of attending law school.
Professor Maryam Ahranjani commented on the initiative: "The Marshall-Brennan Constitutional Literacy Project at UNM School of Law recruits, trains, and supervises talented law students who teach civic and constitutional literacy in local public high schools. We serve both as an educational program for law students and high school students and as a pipeline program to inspire students to pursue high school and attend law school one day." Professor Ahranjani has been involved with planning and overseeing the Constitution Day celebration since she initiated it at the School of Law in 2014.