University of Richmond celebrates 'Infinite Hope' on MLK Day

December 21, 2018

The University of Richmond will celebrate the 2019 Martin Luther King Jr. holiday through a series of learning and service events Jan. 21. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Infinite Hope.”

The university is closed on MLK Day to allow the campus community to engage in activities reflecting on Dr. King’s legacy, participate in service projects, and learn about civil rights in Richmond. The annual commemoration event featuring student performances and an inspirational keynote speaker is open to the public.

“The work of Dr. King remains unfinished, and the University of Richmond has committed to thoughtfully considering what his vision means today,” said Lisa Miles, associate director of Common Ground and event organizer.

Events open to the public include:

MLK Family Day
 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Modlin Center for the Arts
MLK Family Day provides creative learning opportunities around MLK Day and civil rights history for children ages 2-12. This event is free, but registration is required.

Commemoration Ceremony with keynote address by Christy Coleman, CEO of the American Civil War Museum
 3-4:30 p.m., Modlin Center for the Arts, Camp Concert Hall. A reception will follow in Booth Lobby.
Coleman has been instrumental in furthering discussion around the Civil War, its legacies, and its relevance to our lives today not only in the Richmond region, but also around the nation. She strives to make museum experiences meaningful to diverse communities.

Additional opportunities for the campus community include:

  • Kick-off Breakfast, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Heilman Dining Center
  • Service Opportunities in the community, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
    • Service projects range from trash cleanup through the James River Association, clearing brush from the historic East End Cemetery, and making no-sew fleece blankets and cards for people in need.
  • MLK Reflection Space, 2-3 p.m., Modlin Center for the Arts, Booker Hall Lobby

More details about the University of Richmond’s MLK Day celebration are available at richmond.edu/mlk.

UR’s MLK Day events are co-sponsored by the Office of Common Ground and the Bonner Center for Civic Engagement and organized by several campus offices.

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