Casper, WY – Casper College will host a free public seminar on Constitution Day this Wednesday, Sept. 16, with former NBC News justice correspondent Pete Williams as the keynote speaker. The event, titled “Freedom at the Core: The First Amendment in a Digital Democracy,” begins at 9 a.m. in Wheeler Concert Hall on the college campus.
Local journalist returns to share expertise
Williams, a Casper native, spent 29 years covering the U.S. Supreme Court and the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security for NBC News before retiring. His reporting earned four national news Emmy awards, two Edward R. Murrow awards and the Radio Television Digital News Association’s John F. Hogan award. He now serves on the board of directors for Wyoming nonprofit news outlet WyoFile.
“While our world continues to evolve, the protections of the First Amendment remain essential freedoms,” Williams said. “I’m delighted and honored to be back in Casper to attend the seminar and speak about why freedom of the press is even more important in an era of so much misinformation.”
Seminar schedule highlights First Amendment rights
The morning program features a series of 20‑minute sessions on core First Amendment protections. The Casper College Forensics Team will open the day with a presentation on the right to petition, followed by political science instructor Daniel Gallegos discussing the right to assemble. Philosophy and psychology instructor Bridget Veauthier will address freedom of religion, and communication instructor Peter Van Houten will speak on freedom of speech.
At 11 a.m., Williams will take the stage to discuss freedom of the press. He will emphasize the role of a free press in holding power accountable and combating misinformation in today’s digital landscape.
“Living Room Conversation” encourages civil dialogue
After a noon break, the seminar resumes at 1:30 p.m. with a 90‑minute “Living Room Conversation” on freedom. Criminal justice instructor and seminar co‑chair Heather Lloyd explained that the discussion will bring together participants of varying ages, political views, genders and backgrounds. “Understanding these freedoms also requires us to grapple with the difficult questions that arise when freedoms compete, and values come into tension,” Lloyd said. The format is designed to provide a safe, structured space for respectful exchange.
Community support and contact information
The event is sponsored by Casper College and its School of Social and Behavioral Science. Admission is free and open to the public. For additional details, interested individuals may contact Bri Weigel at [email protected].
Williams’ return to his hometown underscores Casper College’s commitment to fostering informed citizenship rooted in constitutional principles. Residents are encouraged to attend and engage in the dialogue surrounding the First Amendment’s enduring relevance.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
