2025 Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. commemoration
January 22 - 29, 2025

Schedule of Events

Wednesday, January 22, 2025
3 pm - 4:30 pm
Student Panel: "Through Our Eyes"
Location: Mitchell Hall 203

As part of the MLK Celebration, join us for the student panel event themed "Through Our Eyes." This powerful discussion will feature multicultural students at WCU sharing their unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Panelists will explore what it means to navigate campus life and how the community can better support and celebrate their identities. Don't miss this opportunity to gain insight, foster understanding, and be part of an important conversation. 

Thursday, January 23, 2025
Service Event: Toy Cleaning & Bouquets for Seniors 
10 am - 3 pm
Location: Sykes Ballroom A&B

Join the Center for Civic Engagement for a day of service in Sykes Ballrooms from 10 am – 3 pm. We will be sanitizing the toys from St. Agnes’ Day Room and providing bouquets to local senior centers in celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy of community support. No pre-registration required! 
Hosted by the Center for Civic Engagement & Social Impact

Friday, January 24, 2025
MLK Awards Ceremony
10 am - 11:30 am
Location: Sykes Ballroom

Join us for the annual MLK Awards and Ceremony as we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This inspiring program will feature a performance by the WCU Gospel Choir, along with the presentations of the Drum Major for Justice Award, the Society Student Service-Leadership Award, and the Larry Dowdy Community Service Award – recognizing individuals who embody Dr. King's values of service, justice, and leadership. A reception will follow the ceremony. The event is free, but registration is required to attend – Click here to register. Don’t miss this meaningful celebration of community and excellence! 
Hosted by The Society This event is free, but registration is required. Click here to register
In partnership with The Society

DOWNLOAD MLK AWARDS CEREMONY FLYER

 

Monday, January 27, 2025
Movie Monday: Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  

Join us as we commemorate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through the power of film. We're encouraging everyone to explore thought-provoking movies that highlight themes of equality, justice, and resilience. Check out this curated list of 10 Movies to Watch in Honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on A.Frame and reflect on the impact of his vision for a more just and compassionate world. 
Whether you're gathering with friends or watching solo, let these stories inspire meaningful conversations about civil rights and social change. Make your Monday a moment of reflection and celebration! 


Tuesday, January 28, 2025 
Trivia Tuesday: Honoring the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

As you go through the day, explore the life and legacy of Dr. King through trivia. Did you know that Dr. King graduated from high school at the age of 15?  Which three U.S. presidents did Dr. King meet?  What does the eternal flame at the King Center symbolize?  Check out reputable trivia sites like Parade Magazine’s 30+ Fascinating Facts About the Civil Rights Icon.      


Wednesday, January 29, 2025
Closing Keynote with Dr. Shaun Harper
4 pm - 5 pm
Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall

Eminent scholar of race, education,  and equity in the United States

Shaun Harper

Dr. Shaun Harper, a nationally recognized expert in diversity, equity, and inclusion, is a Provost Professor and founder of the USC Race and Equity Center. Author of 12 books and over 100 papers, his groundbreaking work in education and social justice has been featured in The Washington Post, Forbes, and Rolling Stone. Don’t miss this opportunity to commemorate the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and learn from one of today’s most influential voices in higher education.

While registration for the event is not required, it is encouraged as it helps us better prepare and ensure a smooth experience for everyone. Click here to register.

Download the Flyer

 

Accommodations for individuals with disabilities are available on request by calling the Office for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at 610-436-2433. Please make your needs known as soon as possible, but no less than one week in advance of the event, to allow time to make the necessary arrangements.