2026 Law and Social Change Lecture: Optimism and Pessimism in Racial Thought in the United States
Noon-1:30 p.m. March 3, Barco Law Building Courtroom
The School of Law’s 2026 Law and Social Change Lecture will feature Randall Kennedy, professor at Harvard Law School. A graduate of Princeton University and Yale Law School, Kennedy clerked for Justice Thurgood Marshall and is the author of several influential books, including “Say It Loud! On Race, Law, History, and Culture.”
In this lecture, Kennedy will examine competing currents of optimism and pessimism in racial thought throughout American history, offering insight into the legal, cultural, and political forces that continue to shape the national conversation on race.
This event is open to the public.
Reshaping Government: Possibilities and Perils. The Firings of Inspectors General, the Demise of Independent and Nonpartisan Government Oversight, and the Unprecedented Attacks on the Federal Workforce
4-5 p.m. March 3, University Club Ballroom
Michael Missal, former inspector general of the Department of Veterans Affairs, former partner and management committee member of K&L Gates, and current partner of IG Partners, will discuss the history of inspectors general, their roles and responsibilities (including assisting Congress in its oversight of the executive branch), the great impact they have had on the government, and how they promote accountability and transparency.
On Jan. 24, 2025, the Trump administration fired 17 inspectors general, without giving the required notice to Congress, including MIssal. He will examine the potential consequences of these actions and what can be done to rebuild these critical functions.
Mark Nordenberg, chancellor emeritus, chair of the Institute of Politics and director of the Dick Thornburgh Forum for Law and Public Policy, will provide opening remarks. This program is sponsored by the Dick Thornburgh Forum for Law & Public Policy at the Institute of Politics, and co-sponsored by Pitt Cyber, Pitt Law and David C. Frederick Honors College. It is free for those not seeking CLE credit.