America's 250 FL
The University of West Florida is proud to join the nationwide commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, an opportunity to pause and reflect on our nation’s past, celebrate Florida's contributions to the republic and look ahead toward the future we want to create for the next generation and beyond.
America’s 250 FL Event Series
The First Amendment and its Enduring Role in the American Pursuit of Happiness
March 3, 2026 at 6:00 pm
Museum of Commerce, UWF Historic Trust
In conjunction with the 2026 Seligman Lecture Series, UWF will welcome noted political theorist and historian Dr. Jay Cost for an evening lecture on the First Amendment and its enduring role in the American pursuit of happiness.
Dr. Cost is the Gerald R. Ford nonresident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI), where he focuses on political theory, Congress, and elections. He is also a visiting scholar at Grove City College and a contributing editor at the Washington Examiner. His books include Democracy or Republic: The People and the Constitution (2023), James Madison: America’s First Politician (2021), and The Price of Greatness: Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and the Creation of American Oligarchy.
His research and writing examine civic republicanism in the United States with an emphasis on the political theory of James Madison, the problem of corruption, the role of political parties, the development of civic institutions over time, and the power and responsibility of Congress. He writes and speaks frequently on American elections, placing contemporary political trends in historical context. Dr. Cost holds a PhD and MA in political science from the University of Chicago and a BA in government and history from the University of Virginia.
There is a reception at 5:30 pm prior to the lecture and Q&A and book signing following the lecture at 7:00 pm and 7:30 pm, respectively. Registration is required.
Did America Have a Christian Founding?
January 23, 2026 at 6:30 p.m.
Voices of Pensacola, UWF Historic Trust
Join UWF and the Historic Trust for a lecture by historian Mark David Hall as he explores a hotly debated question about America’s founding. Hall will examine historical evidence, the intentions of the Founding Fathers, and the ongoing impact of religion on American political and cultural life. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with a lively discussion at the intersection of history, faith, and civic identity.
Please RSVP to let us know you are coming.
The President, the Bureaucracy, and the Fate of Government by Consent of the Governed after 250 Years
October 7, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
UKCOH Multipurpose Room, Building 234
Join us for an America’s 250 FL event featuring guest speaker Dr. Ronald J. Pestritto, the Dean of the Van Andel Graduate School of Statesmanship at Hillsdale College. This event is free and open to the public. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. Please RSVP at the link below.
October 7, 2025, America’s 250 FL Event
Florida’s Celebration
Visit america250fl.com to learn more about the America250FL campaign and Florida's Celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.
