The Utah State Bar, in collaboration with America250 Utah, Federal Bar Association of Utah, Litigation Law Section and Utah Lawyers for Good Policy, is hosting a landmark constitutional symposium, America250: Sharing Stories About America, on Thursday at The Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City.
This premier civic and legal event is one of Utah’s signature commemorations of the United States Semiquincentennial, marking 250 years since the Declaration of Independence, while also honoring the Bar’s 95th anniversary. Together, these milestones offer a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the enduring strength of the rule of law and its role in American democracy.
More than a professional gathering, the symposium convenes national scholars, members of the judiciary and civic leaders for a day of constitutional dialogue and continuing legal education. (The program offers up to 3.5 hours of live mandatory continuing legal education (MCLE) credit for Bar licensees.)
The special event features keynote presentations from two of the nation’s most influential constitutional scholars:
- Jeffrey Rosen, author, historian, and CEO Emeritus of the National Constitution Center, will deliver the morning keynote.
- Professor Jonathan Turley, nationally recognized constitutional law scholar at George Washington University, will deliver the lunch keynote.
Rosen’s keynote address draws from his latest work examining the constitutional tensions between Hamilton and Jefferson, while Turley’s presentation addresses modern constitutional challenges and the evolving interpretation of foundational freedoms.
“The convergence of America’s 250th anniversary with the Utah State Bar’s 95-year legacy creates an extraordinary opportunity,” said Michelle Oldroyd, CLE officer and adjunct professor of law. “This event brings together diverse perspectives to explore the principles that will shape the next era of our republic.”
The commemoration also features a series of short presentations from prominent Utah leaders, including:
- Judge Carolyn B. McHugh, 10th Circuit Court of Appeals
- Justice Jill Pohlman, Utah Supreme Court
- Utah Attorney General Derek Brown
- Hon. Christine M. Durham, Ret. Utah Supreme Court Chief Justice & America250 Utah, co-chair
- W. West Allen, Federal Bar Association Past National President
- Jeffery McKenna, attorney and appearing as Founding Father, Dr. Joseph Warren
Their perspectives highlight the lived experience of constitutional principles in public service and community leadership.
The day opens with a formal presentation of colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, and the national anthem, reinforcing the connection between civic tradition and the rule of law. Attendees will also receive complimentary books written by the keynote speaker and can participate in a book signing following the program.
“This is a milestone moment for our Bar and for the state of Utah,” said Bar President Kim Cordova. “By bringing nationally recognized constitutional voices to Utah and partnering with organizations dedicated to civic education and federal practice, we are contributing meaningfully to the national America250 dialogue.”
Licensees of the Bar, judiciary members and civic leaders are invited to attend this historic convening. The legal community, general public and K-12 educators may find more information to incorporate in their understanding of America250 by visiting the Bar website, America250 – Utah State Bar.
Event Details
What: America250: Sharing Stories About America
When: May 21, 2026 | 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Booking signing 1:00-1:30 p.m.)
Where: The Grand America Hotel, Salt Lake City
Registration for Utah State Bar licensees: https://tinyurl.com/36rfnf5c
Cost: $50 per person
