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Thomas Jefferson Lecture at UTSI

The Thirteenth Annual Thomas Jefferson Lecture was held at the University of Tennessee Space Institute on September 22, 2009. The speaker for the event was Kevin Gutzman, Associate Professor of History at the Western Connecticut State University. Professor Gutzman took as his title: “Thomas Jefferson and the Principles of ‘98”. Attendees arriving early for the event had the pleasure of listening to the music of the Tullahoma High School Flute Trio.

Prof. Gutzman has written on the American Constitution and the way its interpretation has changed over the two centuries since its ratification. In particular, he has focused his attention on the time period 1760 – 1877 of American history. His talk at UTSI addressed some of the constitutional issues raised during Jefferson’s life and his response to them.

As in previous years, the program finished with the presentation of prizes for the student essay contest held in conjunction with the Thomas Jefferson Lecture. The first place prize was awarded to Jocelyn Hawley of Lincoln County High School who was awarded a check for $300.00. In addition, Lincoln County High School was given $500.00 for program development. Lincoln County High School was the only school entering the competition this year.

(Left to Right) Stephen Corda, Interim UT Associate Vice President for UTSI and Chief Administrator; Trevor Moulden, Acting Chairman, Thomas Jefferson Lecture Committee; Kevin Gutzman, Speaker, Thomas Jefferson Lecture; Wes McMinn, Interim Executive Director for Institutional Support.