Georgia Southern University is organizing a series of events in January to commemorate Martin Luther King Jr. The celebrations will take place across its various campuses and will include keynote speeches, performances, parades, and community service activities.
Karla Redding-Andrews, a 1985 alumna of Georgia Southern and daughter of the late Otis Redding, is scheduled as the keynote speaker. She will address attendees today at 6 p.m. in the Fine Arts Auditorium on the Armstrong Campus. Additional keynote addresses by Redding-Andrews are planned for Thursday, Jan. 15, at 10 a.m. in the Swainsboro Campus Auditorium and at 6 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center (PAC) on the Statesboro Campus.
According to university organizers, “Each January, the University community reflects on King’s enduring legacy and the values that continue to shape future generations.” This year’s theme is “Remember the Dream: Honoring Legacy. Celebrating Achievement.” The Division of Student Affairs is hosting the events and has invited faculty, staff, students, and community members to join in reflecting on King’s vision for justice, service, and unity.
The schedule also includes participation in MLK parades: Savannah at 10 a.m., Statesboro at 11 a.m., and Swainsboro at 1 p.m., all taking place on Monday, Jan. 19.
On Wednesday, Jan. 21, there will be a performance titled “Empowered, Brilliant & Brave: Great Women of Black History” at 10:30 a.m. at the PAC in Statesboro. Earlier this month, performances of “George Washington Carver and Friends Show” and “The Life of Dr. King Show” were held at the same venue.
The week concludes with a day of service on Friday, Jan. 23 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., where Georgia Southern students will participate in projects at Willow Hill School in Portal and East Side Savannah United as part of ongoing efforts to promote community engagement inspired by King’s example.
“All events are open to the public, and community members are encouraged to participate,” event organizers stated.
For further details regarding times and locations or how to participate in these events, information can be found on Georgia Southern University’s events calendar.
