The University School of Law named former U.S. Sen. Wyche Fowler Jr. the Carl E. Sanders Political Leadership Scholar for spring 2008.

Fowler’s class will focus on how laws are made and how constitutional laws are interpreted in society.

“All of us – students and adults alike – could use a refresher for the expectations of the U.S. Congress and how our Constitution applies to modern laws and modern problems,” Fowler said in a phone interview.

Fowler served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1977-87 and as U.S. Senator from 1987-93. He served as Ambassador to Saudi Arabia from 1996-2001. He is chairman of the Board of Governors for the Middle East Institute, a nonprofit organization for increasing knowledge and awareness of the Middle East among Americans.

“I know our students will benefit tremendously and learn a great deal from his knowledge, experience and insight, and we appreciate him taking the time to share his expertise by teaching a course in our law school,” School of Law Dean Rebecca H. White said in a news release.

Fowler said he was flattered when contacted about the position. Fowler taught for one year at Harvard University years ago, but “I had hoped I’d teach in my home state,” he said.

Fowler said he picked Congress and the Constitution after discussing with White because of the high percentage of law school graduates who do not immediately go into practicing law and enter the nonprofit and corporate worlds.He said he and students would examine “how well we’re doing our jobs as American citizens in our democracy,” as well as how well Congress is performing its duties.

The Sanders Chair, named for former Georgia Governor, has been filled by former Georgia Secretary of State Cathy Cox, former U.S. Sen. Max Cleland and political consultant Paul E. Begala.