In an annual tradition, Otterbein University will celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with an inspirational convocation followed by an act of service on Tuesday, Jan. 21. This year’s national theme is, “Mission Possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice, and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence365.” 

This year’s Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation featuring keynote speaker Dr. Dorian L. Harrison will be held at 3 p.m. on Jan. 21 in Cowan Hall.  

Harrison is an associate professor in the Department of Teaching and Learning at The Ohio State University at Newark who researches issues of equity in education. In fact, she has dedicated her career to ensuring equity in literacy education, challenging deficit-based perspectives, and empowering learners to see themselves as agents of change. Her groundbreaking research intersects race, class, and language, advancing justice in classrooms and communities alike. 

Another major highlight of the convocation is the announcement of the recipients of the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Peace and Justice Awards. 

Since this event is an important opportunity for members of our community to reflect and consider how they will share in our efforts to build a healthier and more inclusive community, classes are cancelled during the 2:40 p.m. module so that everyone can attend.  

After the Convocation, members of the Otterbein community and the public are invited to participate in Pack-the-Mac & More from 5-7 p.m. at Roush Hall.  

This service program will provide various projects for students that will support our community, including Community Refugee & Immigration Services (CRIS), Church of the Master, Girl Scouts of Ohio’s Heartland, and the Promise House. Volunteers can sign up for to help with a variety of tasks (e.g., packing food, assembling snack bags, cutting plarn, or making fleece blankets, etc.) by registering here: Pack the Mac and More Registration Contact: Micia Clemmons, mclemmons@otterbein.edu.