The George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon has announced the selection of Catholic Law's Professor Derek A. Webb as a member of its 2025-2026 class of research fellows. Each year, the library invites a distinguished group of historians, political scientists, legal scholars, museum professionals, independent researchers, and public intellectuals to participate in its prestigious research fellowship program. Fellows spend several months at the library conducting original research using its vast archives, participating in events, and presenting their findings.

The 2025-2026 cohort of fellows represents a diverse spectrum of scholarship focused on George Washington's life, leadership, and enduring legacy, as well as the broader mission of The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association. During his tenure, Professor Webb plans to examine the significance of the transmittal letter that George Washington attached to the original Constitution. Specifically, he will study the drafting process of the letter, in which Washington emphasized the indispensable “spirit of amity” in the Constitution’s creation, as well as its inclusion in original copies, its citation in ratification debates, and its broader influence. This research is part of Webb’s forthcoming book under contract with Cambridge University Press, titled The Spirit of Amity: The Constitution’s Cover Letter and the Original Meaning of Civility.

Professor Webb, who is currently teaching a seminar on the “Creation of the Constitution” at the law school, expressed his excitement about being selected for the fellowship. “This is a tremendous honor,” Webb shared. “I’ve attended lectures and events at Mount Vernon and the George Washington Presidential Library for years. It’s truly a mecca for studying Washington, his legacy, and the American founding in all its complexity and richness.” He added, “The Mount Vernon Trail is also one of my favorite places for long walks and bike rides. I’m thrilled to explore the archives and collaborate with the talented staff and fellows at the library.”