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Commemorating the Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Special events and activities honor the life of the influential civil rights leader, January 20–23
University News | January 9, 2026
January 19, 2026, marks the 31st anniversary of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday as a National Day of Service. Dr. King’s legacy as the foremost advocate of nonviolent activism during the Civil Rights Movement—championing justice and equality in the face of racial discrimination—is commemorated each year through acts of service and reflection.
This year, Virginia Wesleyan University honors the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a week of service initiatives, film screenings with facilitated discussions, special speakers, and the presentation of an annual student award.
A highlight of the week is “Frames of Freedom: Norman Rockwell, Gordon Parks, and the Visual Language of Justice,” scheduled for Tuesday, January 20, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in Brock Commons. Hosted by the Robert Nusbaum Center, this Martin Luther King Jr. Day program invites the VWU community to explore how visual art has shaped public understanding of justice, dignity, and freedom. VWU Professors of Art Derek Eley and John Rudel will lead an engaging, interactive discussion of iconic works by Gordon Parks and Norman Rockwell, examining how images have challenged stereotypes, inspired moral reflection, and advanced social change—and why their impact continues to resonate today.
As part of the program, the University will present the Mavis McKenley ’11 Award, recognizing a Virginia Wesleyan student whose commitment to justice, education, and community service reflects the enduring ideals of Dr. King.
Hofheimer Library presents a display, "Martin Luther King Jr. and Black History," which includes the recent biorgraphy of Dr. King by Jonathon Eig. And, in the spirit of service, the VWU community is invited to support a winter clothing drive for local elementary school students.
Mark your calendars for these special events and activities:
January 20
- I Have a Dream Wall | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Boyd Dining Hall | Sponsored by Counseling and Wesleyan Engaged
- Frames of Freedom | 11 a.m.–12 p.m. | Brock Commons | Hosted by the Robert Nusbaum Center
- Selma Film Screening and Discussion | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | The Forum
January 21
- King in the Wilderness Film Screening and Discussion | 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. | The Forum
- Rest Is Resistance Workshop | 6–7 p.m. | The Forum | Hosted by Counseling and Wesleyan Engaged
January 22
- Coffee and Conversation with Humanities Behind Bars | 11 a.m.–1 p.m. | Kramer Lounge | Hosted by Counseling and Wesleyan Engaged
The week’s programming is sponsored by the President’s Council on Inclusive Communities (PCIC).