Senator Mitch McConnell Offers Insight to Community

BOWLING GREEN, KY--Western Kentucky University's Constitution Week concluded with an insightful presentation by U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell this morning at WKU's Carroll Knicely Conference Center. As part of its legislative action program, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce partnered with WKU to support this event.

The Kentucky senator discussed international issues and signed copies of John David Dyche's book, The Republican Leader: Political Biography of Senator Mitch McConnell.  More than 75 people attended the event, sponsored by the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, WKU Office of the President and the Political Science Department. In addition, Atmos Energy, the Tennessee Valley Authority, the Warren County Water District and Warren Rural Electric Cooperative Corporation sponsored the event.

Dr. Saundra Ardrey, coordinator of the Political Engagement Project and chair of the Political Science Department, says, "This week's theme, The Constitution: Global Encounters, challenged departments across the campus to present activities that highlighted the influence freedoms and rights guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution have had on countries around the world." 

"The Chamber's theme this year is 'Many faces. One voice.' Today's presentation represents that theme," explains Chamber Chairman Todd Davis. "By presenting facts regarding current international issues that our nation is facing today, Senator McConnell gives our Chamber partners and members of the WKU community an opportunity to learn more about political discussions in Washington."

All higher education institutions that receive federal funds from the Department of Education are required to implement an educational program relating to the United States Constitution on September 17th each year.  The celebration of the Constitution at Western Kentucky University is not limited to a single day. The Department of Political Science and the Political Engagement Project coordinated activities throughout the week, culminating with Senator McConnell's presentation. Additional events included an exhibit at the University Libraries, a panel discussion on "The Global Roots of the American Constitution" sponsored by the History Department and a presentation by the Political Science Department titled "The Influence of the U.S. Constitution on Latin American Constitutions." The Music Department also played national anthems and international folk music from Guthrie Bell Tower.

"The Chamber is proud to participate in events such as this to work toward our mission of providing valuable services for our partners, advocating a positive business environment and stimulating economic growth for South Central Kentucky," said Marc Elliott, CEcD, AICP, Chamber vice president for property development and public policy. "Senator McConnell has been a strong advocate for South Central Kentucky, and we're grateful that he spent time with our community members and Chamber partners today."

Incorporated in 1935, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is the driving force for economic development in South Central Kentucky. As one of only 336 chambers nationwide to be accredited by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the fourth largest chamber in Kentucky, the Chamber serves as a premier business advocate for its more than 1,300 partners. Its primary goals are to promote growth and success in the business community, reaching its small business partners and those in large industries alike. With leadership programs, governmental relations projects, educational initiatives and involvement opportunities, the Chamber aims to support the community and its neighbors in order to enhance the business climate and continue to grow the region.