News

 Southern Illinois University Edwardsville invites the community to the 40^th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Luncheon taking place at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18, in the Morris University Center’s Meridian Ballroom on the Edwardsville campus.

In collaboration with campus and community partners, The Inclusive Excellence, Education and Development Hub (The Hub) will host the luncheon in honor of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The luncheon will include a keynote speaker, a musical performance and the presentation of the SIUE Student Scholarship Award, Local Youth Awards, and Humanitarian Award.

“We are looking forward to the luncheon this year as it will be the first time we have been back in person for the event since 2020,” said Lindy Wagner, assistant vice chancellor for Inclusive Excellence, Education and Development. “We hope the community will join us as we honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”

Rev. Starsky Wilson, DMin, president and CEO of the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF) and CDF Action Council, will serve as the keynote speaker. He will focus on the theme: “Making a Greater Nation.”

“Our speaker will be an excellent source of critical reflection and inspiration as we think about making a greater nation,” Wagner added. “I love the inspiration for our theme this year as we encourage those in attendance to consider making a career of humanity, and reflect on why we should do so as Dr. King highlighted in his speech, from which the theme originates.”

Event proceeds will support the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Endowment.

Registration closes Monday, Jan. 9, 2023. To purchase tickets, visit mlk-luncheon.eventbrite.com.

Photo: The 40^th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Luncheon.