Feature photo by Skylar Fabien
By Skylar Fabien
Martin Luther King Jr., a civil rights leader who died on April 4, 1968, fought for equality during the 1960s. He inspired people across the nation to stand against racism and promote diversity, unity, and peace.
William Peace University hosted a Martin Luther King Jr Day volunteering event on the second Floor of Belk. The event was rescheduled due to a weekend snowstorm, but remained an important part of campus programming.
This event was a part of “Welcome Week” on Friday, Jan. 23. Christine O’Donnell, assistant director of Student Involvement, hosted the MLK event to honor the civil rights leader.
O’Donnell said the event was designed to give students a meaningful way to start the semester.
“I think it’s a free opportunity to kind of center at the beginning of the school year, and that’s what’s important,” O’Donnell said.
The students responded positively to the event.
“I thought it was a great event in order to honor what Martin Luther King has done for the community,” said Alexa Rodriguez, a first-year student.
Student Government Programming Association members and students often work hand in hand to create great events for the students at Peace. SGPA is the primary student-led organization representing the student body. Students felt that the event was peaceful as it focused on enhancing campus life through events and advocacy.
In this event, students participated in making tie blankets and packing bags with essentials for those in need. Anyone who volunteered for the event was provided free food and a T-shirt.
The event gave students and alumni a sense of what it means to serve in their community and have an impact.
Food options included a variety of sandwiches, salad with dressing, brownies, and cookies from a local restaurant. Self-care items such as hand sanitizer was also available for attendees.
The program honored Martin Luther King Jr. and his commitment to fighting against racism and bringing people together, no matter their race. At the conclusion of the event, participants worked together to clean up, reaffirming the spirit of unity.
O’Donnell added that her favorite part of working with SGPA is watching the students throughout their four years of college. She enjoys seeing their confidence grow as they plan for events and strengthen their leadership skills.
MLK Day provided students with an opportunity to meet new people and honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.