WEST CHESTER, PA — West Chester University (WCU) has announced a series of special events to honor the legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The commemorative programs, open to students, faculty, staff, and the public, will run from January 22 through January 29 to allow for widespread participation.
Among the key events is the highly anticipated MLK Awards Celebration and Reception, scheduled for Friday, January 24, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the Sykes Ballrooms. For over 30 years, the event has been organized by the Society of WCU, formerly known as the Frederick Douglass Society. During the program, WCU alumni who embody Dr. King’s legacy will be honored with the Drum Major for Justice Awards. Details on the award recipients will be revealed following the ceremony.
Service is central to WCU’s tradition of commemorating Dr. King’s enduring impact. On Thursday, January 23, the university’s Center for Civic Engagement & Social Impact (CCESI) will host a service project from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Sykes Ballrooms. Volunteers will engage in meaningful acts of care, including cleaning toys for children and crafting bouquets for senior citizens.
Other notable events include a student panel titled “Through Our Eyes” on Wednesday, January 22, at 3 p.m. in Mitchell Hall 203. The panel will provide a platform for students to share their experiences and perspectives, fostering dialogue and highlighting Dr. King’s principles of equity and justice.
The commemorative week will conclude with a keynote address from Dr. Shaun Harper, a nationally recognized scholar on diversity, equity, and inclusion, on Wednesday, January 29, from 4 to 5 p.m. in Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall. Dr. Harper, a provost professor at the University of Southern California and founder of the USC Race and Equity Center, has authored 12 books and published over 100 research papers on education and social justice. His distinguished work has received national attention, including features in The Washington Post, Forbes, Rolling Stone, NPR, CNN, and MSNBC. Education Week has repeatedly recognized him as one of the 10 most influential scholars in education.
This series of events spotlights West Chester University’s commitment to honoring Dr. King’s legacy through service, dialogue, and education. For more information on the full schedule, visit WCU’s website.
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