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Marietta honors the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with week-long celebration

by Gi Smith

Marietta, OH (01/16/2025) — Marietta College will celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during a week of meaningful events, volunteer opportunities, and reflection starting Saturday, January 18.

"The theme for this year's celebration is Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence 365, a powerful reminder of Dr. King's commitment to justice, equality, and peace every day of the year," said Tony Mayle, Director of Diversity and Inclusion and Associate Dean of Students.

The week kicks off with a special educational program on Saturday, January 18, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Alma McDonough Auditorium. This event will feature a series of moving presentations and performances, including remarks from Marietta College Interim President Kathleen Poorman Dougherty and reflections from students who participated in the Fall Break Experience Trip to Montgomery, Alabama. These students will share their experiences exploring the history of Black slavery, from its origins in 1619 through to the present day. Briana Williams '27 and William Linse '26 will emcee the event and Karen Walker will add a musical performance.

The highlight of the day will be a keynote address by Lynda Blackmon Lowery, a key figure in the Civil Rights Movement and the youngest marcher to participate in the 1965 Selma to Montgomery voting rights march. In her speech, titled Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March, Lowery will recount her firsthand experiences on "Bloody Sunday" and "Turn Around Tuesday" and discuss the importance of youth involvement in the fight for civil rights. Her personal story of resilience and activism continues to inspire generations across the country.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be streamed live on Marietta College Office of Diversity & Inclusion's Facebook page.

In keeping with Dr. King's call to serve others, Marietta College will offer a series of volunteer opportunities for students and employees from Saturday, January 18, through Saturday, January 25. Participants can make a meaningful impact by assisting local organizations such as the Washington County Harvest of Hope, Belpre Area Ministries, GoPacks, and the Gospel Mission Food Pantry. These opportunities are a chance to live out the values of service and nonviolence that Dr. King championed. The McDonough Center for Leadership and Business is playing a key role in organizing and implementing the volunteer events for the week.

Students and staff interested in volunteering can sign up through the Engage Marietta GivePulse app, which allows them to register for specific service opportunities.

On Friday, January 24, the campus will host the Spring Involvement Fair from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in The Great Room of Andrews Hall. This event will connect students with various campus organizations and community groups that provide opportunities for current students to get involved on campus and within the greater community. Student groups, as well as non-profit and for-profit organizations will have the opportunity to showcase their work and recruit new members, volunteers or future interns and employees.

The fair will be a great way for students to discover avenues for future involvement, whether through volunteering, leadership, employment, or advocacy. Organizations are encouraged to register early to secure a table and share their mission with others.

In addition to these events, the College will observe MLK Day of Observance on Monday, January 20 (regular classes will not take place), and celebrate the National Day of Racial Healing on Tuesday, January 21 (classes will be in session). Both days provide opportunities for the campus community to reflect on Dr. King's vision and continue the work toward a more just and equitable society.

Marietta College's week-long celebration invites everyone to honor Dr. King's legacy through education, service, and community involvement. By engaging in these events and volunteer opportunities, students, faculty, and staff can continue to embody the spirit of nonviolence and justice that Dr. King championed, creating a lasting impact in the local community and beyond.

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Lynda Blackmon Lowery will be the keynote speaker during Saturday's celebration at Marietta College that honors the legacy of the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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