A Study of State Constitutions with Kay Mathers, A&S, '26 (MA)

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A Study of State Constitutions
Instructor: Kay Mathers, A&S, '26 (MA)
August 26 - September 30 (6 Sessions)
Wednesdays, 7:00PM - 8:00PM ET
Virtual va Zoom

Brought to you by Odyssey  

Course Description: This course considers the origins of the state constitutions starting from the states of the confederacy to present day constitutions.The class examines the interactions of state constitutions with state legislatures in addition to state judicial systems. In addition, the class with examine how state constitution can both be similar and differ from state to state as well as how they are similar and differ from the United States Constitution. The course focuses on the foundational legal framework of states’ rights and how those rights interact within the judicial framework of federal rights. Finally the class focuses on the amendment process outlined in the constitution and will specifically look at the citizen-led ballot amendment initiative which has become widely utilized in supermajority states.

Explore the full Fall 2026 Odyssey catalog and discover engaging courses taught by Johns Hopkins alumni, faculty and community experts.

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ABOUT Kay Mathers, A&S, '26 (MA)

Kay Mathers holds a Master’s degree in Government from Johns Hopkins University and bachelor’s degrees in History and Political Science from Alma College.

Most recently, she served as the Director of Regional Operations for the Harris/Walz presidential campaign, where she led the development and management of statewide infrastructure supporting more than 200 campaign staff members in Florida. Prior to that role, she was the statewide Program Director for Ruth’s List Florida and worked as a political consultant on multiple campaigns at the congressional, state House, and local levels. Her earlier political experience includes serving across three election cycles as Political Director and strategist for two state House campaigns and a congressional race for the Honorable Margaret Good, as well as working as her Legislative District Aide.

Kay began her career in television news management before transitioning to nonprofit leadership with Girls Inc. of Sarasota County, where she served as Director of Community Affairs, Interim Executive Director, and a two-term board chair. She currently serves on the National Board of Girls Inc.

 Event Date
Starts:
Wednesday, August 26, 2026
7:00pm EDT

Ends:
Wednesday, September 30, 2026
8:00pm EDT

 Contact
Odyssey
Alumni Relations Lifelong Learning
800-JHU-JHU1 (548-5481)
odyssey@jhu.edu

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50% discount. Alumni status will be confirmed.
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80% discount. Status of university employment will be confirmed.
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50% discount. Employment status of Spouse/Domestic Partner will be confirmed.
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