America Celebrates Constitution Day on Thursday, September 17, 2026!
What is a constitution — and why does a document written nearly 240 years ago continue to govern the United States?
This Constitution Day, Northwood University invites the public to watch a faculty discussion that explored those questions and more during a Sept. 10 panel moderated by Dr. Dale Moler, Northwood’s Economics and Philosophy Division Chair. Panelists included Endowed Chair of Leadership Dr. Brett M. Decker, Economics and Philosophy Professor Dr. Glenn Moots and Economics Assistant Professor Dr. Michael Makovi.
“This enlightening discussion illustrates how America’s Free Enterprise University places business education within the broader study of human freedom, constitutional government and responsible leadership,” stated Academic Vice President and Provost Dr. Kristin Stehouwer. “At Northwood, free enterprise is understood as a system rooted in human freedom and supported by private property, open competition, the rule of law and personal responsibility. This faculty panel on the U.S. Constitution demonstrated why understanding those principles requires more than studying markets or mastering business skills.”
“Northwood University believes people flourish when they are free to create, innovate and serve others — and when they exercise that freedom responsibly,” added Academic Dean and Assistant Provost Dr. Stacey Tetloff. “Conversations like this help students — and our greater community — understand the constitutional foundations that allow freedom, accountability and enterprise to improve lives and strengthen communities.”
The panel examined foundational questions about the origins and purposes of constitutions, the meaning of “We the People,” the separation of powers, federalism, the Bill of Rights and the Constitution’s ability to endure and respond to change.
Those questions have direct relevance to Northwood’s mission, Dr. Moler noted.
“Free enterprise depends on more than economic activity. It requires institutions that protect individual rights, limit and disperse governmental power, uphold consistent rules and hold leaders accountable. It also requires citizens and leaders who understand that freedom carries responsibilities to others,” Dr. Moler added.
By bringing together faculty expertise in leadership, political science, philosophy, economics and history, Northwood creates opportunities for students to examine — rather than merely inherit — the ideas that sustain a free society, explained Dr. Benzecry, the David E. Fry Professor of Free Market Economics.
“This faculty panel reflects Northwood’s commitment to preparing principled leaders who can think critically about the institutions in which businesses, communities and individuals flourish,” Dr. Benzecry added. “Northwood’s mission is to develop free-enterprise leaders, and this timely discussion puts that mission into action by connecting America’s founding framework with the choices leaders make today.”
Watch Northwood University’s faculty panel on the U.S. Constitution.
