In honor of Constitution Day on September 17, the Guarini Institute for Government and Leadership at Saint Peter’s University invited Abed Awad, Esq. ’91, attorney, public speaker and community leader, to speak to students on American courts and religion.
Constitution Day commemorates the formation and signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787. In honor of this historical event, this week all Americans are encouraged to attend activities, parades and demonstrations of support for the United States and the Founding Fathers.
Awad founded the law firm Awad & Khoury, LLP in 2010. He is an expert in the interpretation and application of Shari’a or Islamic law, as well as Egyptian, Syrian, Qatari, Kuwaiti, United Arab Emirates, Moroccan, Palestinian, Jordanian, Lebanese, Saudi Arabian, Iraqi, Libyan and Ja’fari law. Awad also frequently serves as a political and legal commentator for a variety of media outlets such as The New York Times, ABC, CNN and BBC World Service Radio, among others.
During his presentation at Saint Peter’s, Awad addressed a room full of students, faculty and administrators regarding the history of the diversity of religion in America and the interpretation of Islamic law in today’s court system. He not only shared a great deal of information about his area of expertise, but he also shared some fond memories from his days at Saint Peter’s.
“Saint Peter’s brings back a lot of memories for me,” Awad explained. “Dr. Cornacchia was a mentor and role model to me.”
“It was also the place where I met my wife so I remember trying to convince her to go on a date with me,” he added.
Many members of the audience enjoyed the presentation and asked questions regarding specific examples of Islamic law being used in today’s courtrooms.
Members of the Saint Peter’s community can look forward to upcoming events from the Guarini Institute for Government and Leadership planned for the fall semester. Click here to view the event calendar.