Courting Danger: Will America's Judicial System Uphold the Constitution?
May 12 – 15, 2025
In collaboration with SMC Public Policy Institute, SMMUSD, and the SMC Associated Students.
All events are free and open to the public.
The Imperial Presidency vs the Noble Court: The Arm Wrestling Event of the Century
Monday, May 12, 6:30 to 8 p.m
Featured Speakers: Erwin Chemerinsky, Dean of the UC Berkeley School of Law and Sheila Kuehl, Founder, SMC Public Policy Institute.
Santa Monica College Student Services Center Orientation Hall | SSC 183
Unilateral Authority? Examining the Constitutionality of Executive Orders
Tuesday, May 13, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Dr. Richard Amir Tahvildaran-Jesswein, Professor Political Science, Santa Monica College, Co-Director, Public Policy Institute, Santa Monica College.
Santa Monica College Student Services Center Orientation Hall | SSC 183
Get to Know SMC's Law Pathway Program
Wednesday, May 14, 6:30 to 8 p.m
Meet alumni and current students pursuing degrees and careers in the legal profession and how SMC can provide unique opportunities.
Santa Monica College Student Services Center Orientation Hall | SSC 183
Town Hall: Power to the People
Thursday, May 15, 6:30 to 8 p.m
Special Guest Speakers to be announced. Join the in-person Town Hall to ask questions, express your opin-ions, share emotions, and develop ideas for action. It's up to us to protect democracy!
Santa Monica College Student Services Center Orientation Hall | SSC 183
Accommodations
If you need an accommodation due to a disability to participate in any of these events, please contact Kiersten Elliott at Elliott_Kiersten@smc.edu or 310-434-4173, at least 5 business days in advance.
About the Public Policy Institute
The Santa Monica College Public Policy Institute provides nonpartisan community programs exploring key economic, social, and political issues. The Institute—which presents informative discussions on the policy issues that affect our daily lives—proudly offers an Associate in Arts degree and a Certificate of Achievement in Public Policy. Students can choose to specialize in one of five policy areas: arts and cultural affairs, education, environment and sustainability, public health, and urban/socioeconomic affairs. Dr. Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein, Co-Director, and Founding Associate Director; Shari Davis, MPP, Co-Director. To view past events, visit PPI Past Events (opens in new window) .