MLK Day Message from President Felecia M. Nave
Dear Students, Faculty, and Staff:
“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’”
— Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
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As we celebrate the legacy of a great man, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., let us remember to keep his principles at the forefront of our work as we strive to improve and uplift communities in our southwest corner of Mississippi, the state, and beyond. His principles helped make advances for — not only African Americans — but for all people. He encouraged others to show love instead of hate when we interact with each other and to seek understanding.
Today marks the 36th year of the national celebration and remembrance of the lifetime contributions Dr. King made to Civil Rights and in his service to others. As I follow the debate in Congress regarding the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act of 2021, I am reminded consistently of the instrumental role Dr. King played in the passage of the Voting Rights of 1965. It is quite disheartening that in 2022, equitable voting rights are not unilaterally embraced. Hence, there remains work to do! Additionally, I am further reminded of the need for service as too many of our communities continue to grapple with social tensions, civil unrest, and the vast disparities that have been laid bare during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Designated as our National Day of Service, where we give back to our fellow man and communities across the U.S., MLK Day is considered a “Day on, not off.” Service is synonymous with the mission of Alcorn State University. Throughout our 150 years of excellence, we have answered the call of service and dared to be a pillar of hope for many.
In honor of Dr. King, today we kick off our week of events. At 10:00 a.m., Dr. C. Edward Rhodes, ASU Director of Religious and Spiritual Life, will deliver the keynote address for our annual MLK program. The virtual program will premiere on the University’s Facebook and YouTube channels — @alcornstateu. I extend a special thank you to our students, faculty, and staff, who worked collaboratively to plan such an engaging and meaningful slate of events and encourage you to participate in as many events as possible.
If you have not already committed to a community service project, I encourage you to exercise at least one small act of kindness toward a neighbor or loved one. As we reflect on Dr. King’s legacy, let us continue to operate in love and honor above all else.
Please see below for other events that will be held throughout the week.
Tuesday, January 18, 2022, 3 p.m.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Unity Walk and Program
Location: Oakland Chapel
Sponsored by the Office of Educational Equity and Inclusion/Diversity
Wednesday, January 19, 2022, 4 p.m.
Virtual Money Management Workshop
Join here — https://aie.info/Alcorn-planandspend
Sponsored by the Office of Financial Aid
Friday, January 21, 2022, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
“I Have a Dream” Oratorical Contest
Location: Front steps of the J.D. Boyd Library
To register, contact [email protected] or [email protected] by January 18, 2022.
Sponsored by the Offices of Student Development and Equity and Inclusion/Diversity
Yours in Service,
Dr. Felecia M. Nave, President
