Willamette Stories

Exploring America's Constitution

“Powers not delegated … are reserved … to the people.”
– 10th Amendment, U.S. Constitution

An enthusiasm for America’s system of government and an appreciation for his Willamette College of Law education motivated Ken Peterson L’80 and his wife, Claudia, to establish The Willamette Center for Law and Government. The $2 million endowed gift fulfills Willamette’s dream to provide students with an in-depth look at law and government and to create the Law & Government Certificate Program, one of four new certificate programs at the College of Law.

"Given Willamette’s proximity to the state capitol and the historic relationship with state government, I thought something with an emphasis on that relationship was particularly relevant," said Peterson. "I hope that the Center will provide an additional avenue for students to learn about our system and what makes it so precious in the struggle to maintain liberty in a world that has so often been hostile to freedom."

The Center will help students develop an understanding of the law governing institutions at the national, state and local levels. It will also explore how public policy is made and modified and how those educated in the law can effectively influence the formulation of law and public policy. "The bottom line is that I want to do what I can to help make sure our special American system of government remains vibrant and is one of those things that will be passed along to my children and their children for generations to come," said Peterson.

For more information about The Willamette Center for Law and Government visit www.willamette.edu/wucl/academic/certificates.htm.