By Kris McBride/EAC
THATCHER, Ariz. — Eastern Arizona College (EAC) marked its annual Constitution Day celebration with a keynote address from Graham County Attorney, L. Scott Bennett. The event, led by Associated Students of Eastern Arizona College (ASEAC) President Dallen Rogers, was attended by nearly 300 students.
The celebration began with the EAC Marching Band, led by Professor of Music Geoff DeSpain, performing a stirring rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner. Following the musical opening, ASEAC Secretary Liberty Raban led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. EAC President Todd Haynie then delivered remarks focused on the enduring significance of the U.S. Constitution. In his remarks, Haynie highlighted the importance of civic engagement and constitutional awareness in higher education.
The featured speech was delivered by Mr. Bennett. Elected as Graham County Attorney in November 2020, Bennett brought a wealth of experience and a deep respect for constitutional law to the podium. His career has been marked by significant contributions to law enforcement and justice, including earning the prestigious Arizona Prosecuting Attorney’s Advisory Council Prosecutor of the Year award in 2017.
In his address, Bennett captivated the audience with a discussion on the critical role of the U.S. Constitution in both legal protection and civic responsibility. He detailed the challenges of legal defense and the importance of constitutional rights. Bennett expressed a strong appreciation for the protections these amendments offer to the accused and the public at large, emphasizing the profound value of legal and constitutional frameworks in American life.
“The lives we live are better than anyone has ever lived in the history of the planet, and the lives that we live in the United States of America are as good as they can be because of the Constitution,” Bennett remarked. “I hope you recognize and appreciate what those 55 revolutionaries did 237 years ago today. It is my fervent prayer that God will continue to bless our Constitution and the United States of America.”
Reflecting on the event, Keith Alexander, EAC’s chief government relations officer, remarked: “At Eastern Arizona College, we not only celebrate the U.S. Constitution for its historical importance but also for the active role it plays in empowering our community. We are proud to support and uphold the principles of the Constitution by offering enriching opportunities for our residents to engage civically and expand their understanding of their rights and responsibilities.”
The event concluded with President Haynie thanking Mr. Bennett for his insightful contributions and affirming EAC’s commitment to fostering a robust understanding of the Constitution among its students.
For more information about future events and educational opportunities at Eastern Arizona College, please visit www.eac.edu.
About Eastern Arizona College:
Since 1888, Eastern Arizona College has been the undisputed Smart Higher Education Destination, shaping student dreams into reality. With a faculty of qualified and caring instructors, EAC is committed to preparing students for high-demand careers and advanced studies at top universities.
Offering a diverse range of over 90 degrees and certificates and two bachelor’s degrees, EAC is home to the state’s premier nursing school, a fine arts program featuring Arizona’s only community college marching band, and an engineering program that equips students for success at top-tiered firms and universities.
Beyond academics, EAC is a vibrant community where students thrive, forging connections that last a lifetime. At EAC, students can live in on-campus housing, engage in over 30 clubs and organizations, participate in dynamic intramurals, and cheer for nationally ranked athletic and e-sports teams.
What sets EAC apart is its commitment to financial accessibility, allowing most students to graduate with $0 debt.
Choose EAC as your Smart Higher Education Destination. For more information, visit www.eac.edu or call (928) 428-8272.
