The University of Richmond is set to host its 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on January 20, an event that promises to honor the life and contributions of the iconic civil rights leader. This free and public gathering will feature a keynote address by Makola M. Abdullah, the president of Virginia State University. Abdullah is widely recognized for his commitment to student success, access to education, and social justice initiatives.
Taking place in Ukrop Auditorium at the Robins School of Business at 6 p.m., the evening will include a reception following the program.
Monica M. Smith, the university’s vice president for inclusion & belonging, emphasized the interconnectedness that Dr. King highlighted, stating, “Dr. King reminded us that we are bound together in a web of mutuality.” She noted that this year’s celebration encourages both the campus and the surrounding community to reflect on the historical significance of King’s work while fostering discussions about their shared humanity and collective responsibility.
Aaliyah McLean, associate director of operations for inclusion & belonging, expressed that the celebration serves as a significant opportunity to honor Dr. King’s lasting influence: “It will be an evening of learning and connection that inspires continued dialogue and invites us to carry forward Dr. King’s work of justice, belonging, and service on our campus and within our broader community.”
This event promises to not only commemorate Dr. King’s legacy but also to motivate participants to engage with his ideals in their everyday lives, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate environment at the University of Richmond and beyond.