MLK Series 2026
Featured event: MLK Fireside Chat
Damola Adamolekun
CEO, Red Lobster
The 91ÉçÇø Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the Distinguished Speaker Series present the MLK Series Fireside Chat with Damola Adamolekun, the chief executive officer of the iconic global restaurant chain Red Lobster. At 35, Adamolekun is the youngest CEO in Red Lobster's history, leading the company in strategic initiatives and ensuring the brand’s continued growth and success. Adamolekun has been recognized by Fortune Magazine as one of the 100 most powerful people in business and was named in Nation’s Restaurant News’ Power List among the most innovative and inspiring leaders in the restaurant industry.
The program features a moderated discussion with Adamolekun, an opening performance and an audience Q&A.
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Anderson Center Osterhout Concert Theater
This event is free,
Sponsored by the Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Distinguished Speaker Series, 91ÉçÇø Foundation, Office of the President, Division of Advancement, Office of the Provost, Student Association Vice President of Multicultural Affairs, Student Association Programming Board, Black Student Union and Faculty and Staff of Color Affinity Group.
MLK Series Events
MLK, Jr Day with NAACP
Monday, January 19, 2026
noon to 2 p.m
Trinity AME Zion Church (parking at 219 Oak Street)
Sponsored by the Broome-Tioga NAACP Branch 2135
Join the Broome-Tioga Branch of the NAACP for their annual MLK, Jr Day Celebration, this year's theme: Live Together in Peace. The event is free and will feature youth performances, Guest Speaker Rev. Myra Brown and more. Light refreshments provided.
National Day of Community Healing (NDOCH): Healing Begins with Us
Tuesday, January 20, 2026
10 a.m. to 2 p.m
University Union, Mandela Room
Sponsored by the UDiversity Educational Institute
Join us for a transformative day-long event dedicated to exploring the meaning of healing through dialogue, art, and community engagement. The program features opening remarks, a land acknowledgment, music, and breakout sessions. Discussion topics address identity, political, familial, and friendship challenges, focusing on experiences related to race, religion, disability, and LGBTQ+ identities. Students, faculty, and community members are invited to participate in healing circles, a faculty panel, and art and music-based healing activities, as well as discussions on spiritual and mental health. Participants will have opportunities to explore the meaning of healing and connect with resources that support ongoing wellness and community care.
Featuring: Keynote by
Campus members can learn more about the on B-Engaged.
For more information, contact event organizer Jen Smith, interim assistant director, UDiversity.
MLK Days of Service
Date: Friday, January 23 and Saturday, January 24
Sponsored by the Q Center, Center for Civic Engagement and MRC
Join us for one of our meaningful MLK Days of Service projects as we provide local organizations with hands-on service in honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy of servant leadership. Upon return to campus all volunteers will be provided with pizza!
Sign-up for one of the projects today:
- Sarah Jane Johnson United Methodist Church Relocation Project
This project will occur in multiple slots on Friday, January 23 and Saturday, January 24. Volunteers can sign-up for as many slots as you are available. For this project volunteers on different teams will either help pack and load furniture and supplies at the current location or assist with unloading and setting up items at the new site. - Identity Youth Center Project
Looking for a hands-on way to give back to the community? Identity Youth Center Project volunteers will help create a brighter, cleaner and more organized environment at the center. No experience is necessary, just bring your energy and enthusiasm! Free transportation to and from the Identity Youth Center will be provided.
- Q Center Gender Bender Closet Refresh Project
- Improv Comedy Theater Painting Project
- Techworks Project (tentative)
Fashion with Flavor Friday: Speed Friending
Friday, January 23
3 to 5 p.m.
Q Center Lounge, LS-G549
Sponsored by the Q Center
Stop by the Q Center for speed friending and free food as we kick-off our weekly Fashion with Flavor Fridays for the spring semester! Fashion w/ Flavor Fridays happen every week and are a great opportunity to make new friends, enjoy some delicious food, vibe to music, and leave with some new outfits from our Gender Bender Closet!
MRC Monthly Mixer
Thursday, January 29
3:30 to 5 p.m.
MRC Lounge, LS-G500
Sponsored by the Multicultural Resource Center
Join the MRC for its first monthly mixer of 2026! Join us as we celebrate the contributions of Martin Luther King Jr and other civil rights activists. Enjoy engaging conversations, cultural exchange, games and music in a relaxed environment. All are welcome! Food and light refreshments will be provided.