Tickets . Due to a special 40th anniversary combined dinner program setting, guests are encouraged to reserve their tables and seats as soon as possible.

This annual event is known as the largest of its kind on any college campus. The dinner program seeks to honor the life and legacy of a leader who brings hope and healing to our world and is a direct expression of Syracuse University’s commitment to advancing academic excellence at a university welcoming to all.

“Forty is a special number, and 40 years is a special commitment. We are honored to welcome President Sarah Willie-LeBreton as our featured speaker for this historic 40th anniversary celebration,” says the Rev. Brian Konkol, vice president and dean of Hendricks Chapel. “Through her remarkable impact built through years of dedicated service, President Willie-LeBreton honors her father’s legacy by creating a legacy of her own, and she inspires us all to spark and sustain a better world.”

An accomplished administrator, scholar and sociologist who studies social inequality and race and ethnicity, Willie-LeBreton is known for her commitment to the liberal arts, strengthening community and energizing the work of equity and inclusion.

Willie-LeBreton earned a bachelor’s degree from Haverford College in 1986, and a master’s degree (1988) and Ph.D. (1995) from Northwestern University, all in sociology. After having taught at Colby College (1991–95) and Bard College (1995–97) in tenure-track appointments, she was tenured at Swarthmore College, where she served as coordinator of the Black Studies Program and chair of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology for a total of 17 years. She was appointed as provost and dean of the faculty at Swarthmore in 2018 and served in that role until 2023.

Willie-LeBreton currently serves on the boards of the Grand Canyon Conservancy, the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts and the Consortium on Financing Higher Education. She is a member of and has been active in the Eastern Sociological Society, Sociologists for Women in Society, the Association of Black Sociologists and the American Sociological Association (ASA). For several years, she reviewed sociology and affiliated departments as a member of the ASA’s Departmental Resources Group.

Willie-LeBreton follows in the footsteps of her father,��who came to Syracuse University in 1950 as a graduate student and teaching assistant in sociology. He later earned his doctorate in 1957 from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. When he was appointed chair of the sociology department in 1967, he became the first Black department chair in Syracuse University history and later, the first Black full professor. He served as vice president for student affairs from 1972-74, becoming the University’s first Black vice president. A graduate and class president of the Morehouse College class of 1948, Willie’s legacy will forever be tied to his classmate Martin Luther King Jr., whom he recruited to the Syracuse University campus to speak in 1961 and 1965.

The 2025 program marks the 40th year for the MLK Celebration at Syracuse University, which will include an address from Willie-LeBreton, student and community group performances, and a presentation of this year’s .

Dinner buffets will open at 5 p.m. and will be held near the JMA Dome’s west end zone. Guests can enter the “Courtside Lounge and Suites” entrance located between Gates A and B. Halal, Kosher, gluten-free and vegetarian options will be available. This year all guests will remain at the tables for the program.

Ticket purchase options are as follows:

All tickets will be assigned a table number at the time of purchase, which will be included in the mobile tickets. Guests interested in sitting with friends are recommended to purchase tickets together to ensure the same table assignment.

Guests may order up to eight dinner and program tickets online. To purchase one full table (eight seats), select eight total tickets and proceed to checkout. To purchase more than one table or more than eight individual tickets, or if experiencing difficulties, please call the JMA Dome Box Office at 1.888.DOME.TIX (315.443.2121), option four.

Buy tickets online at��, in person at the Dome Box Office inside Gate B at 900 Irving Ave. (Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) or by phone (888.DOME.TIX or 315.443.2121, option four). Tickets will be mobile this year and uploaded directly to your MyCuse account to manage upon purchase. View the for more information.

Free parking is available in the , the , and the . American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, AIRA and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be available for the event.

For more information about the MLK Celebration or to request accommodations, contact Hendricks Chapel at��chapel@syr.edu��or 315.443.2901. Learn more about this and other Hendricks Chapel events by visiting .

The celebration seeks to honor the life and legacy of individuals who exemplify the spirit, life and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. yet have not received widespread recognition or been previously honored for their efforts. These individuals represent a direct expression of Syracuse University’s commitment to fostering and supporting a university welcoming to all.

If you know an individual who should be honored and celebrated, please consider for recognition at the 2025 celebration. Nominations must be a minimum of 250 words and a maximum��of 500 words. The nomination should be a written explanation of how the nominee embodies Dr. King’s legacy, and what makes them an Unsung Hero. ��included Syracuse community members, and Syracuse University faculty, students and staff.

Nominations may be made in any of the following categories:

• youth/teen from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• adult from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• currently enrolled student at Syracuse University or SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF)
• faculty or staff from Syracuse University or SUNY ESF

Nominations are due by Wednesday, Dec. 18, at 11:59 p.m. EST.

The 2025 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration will take place on Jan. 26, 2025, in the JMA Wireless Dome. Further information will be announced in the coming weeks at .

Questions regarding the Unsung Hero Awards can be directed to Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu.

This annual event, attended by nearly 2,000 people, is the largest of its kind on any college campus. The program seeks to honor the message and mission of King and is a direct expression of the University’s commitment to advancing academic excellence at a university welcoming to all. This year’s theme was “The Reach of the Dream.”

Talithia Williams, big data expert, math professor and host of “NOVA Wonders,” was the event’s keynote speaker. She spoke on “Becoming an Agent of Change for Inclusive Education”�� and addressed how to close achievement gaps and serve as inclusive agents of positive and profound change.

The program included student and community group performances, and the presentation of this year’s . An art gallery featuring works from local Black artists was also part of the celebration.

Images from the evening:

Cjala Surratt of the Black Artist Collective talks to guests in the celebration’s art gallery. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Artist London Ladd, instructor in the School of Art in the College of Visual and Performing Arts, shares his work with a guest. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Students make crafts during the celebration event. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Community youth attended the celebration to support Unsung Hero recipient Murjan Abdi, pictured second from right. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Guests enjoy the traditional MLK Celebration dinner. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

MLK Celebration guests (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Members of the Adonfo Ensemble perform during the celebration. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

Pictured left to right, the 2024 Unsung Hero recipients are Elbethel Berhane (community youth), Murjan Abdi (community adult), Sharon Dotger (Syracuse University faculty) and Mia-Marie Fields ’24 (Syracuse University student). (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Keynote speaker Talithia Williams, big data expert, math professor and host of “NOVA Wonders” addresses the audience. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

Cora Thomas leads the MLK Community Choir. (Photo by Jeremy Brinn)

The 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Planning Committee is proud to announce the 2024 Unsung Hero Award winners: Murjan Abdi, Sharon Dotger, Elbethel Berhane and Mia-Marie Fields ’24.

The Unsung Hero Award is given to community members, students, faculty and staff who have made a positive impact on the lives of others but are not widely recognized for their contributions. The awards were created to honor Dr. King’s vision of creating positive change in a troubled world. There were a record number of nominations for this year’s award.

The award winners will be recognized at the 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. The 2024 celebration will be held on Sunday, Jan. 21, with the art gallery opening at 4:15 p.m., dinner at 5 p.m., and the event at 7 p.m. featuring keynote speaker Talithia Williams. Tickets for the celebration are available .

The Unsung Heroes are:

Sharon Dotger (Syracuse University faculty)

Dotger is the faculty director of teacher education and undergraduate studies in the School of Education. Over the past year, she has been tasked with redesigning the teacher education program, ensuring that preservice teachers are equipped with the skills, knowledge and compassion necessary to both enter the workforce and thrive in it. This shift will ensure that graduates of the University’s education programs are prepared to work alongside students with disabilities in schools across the nation, bringing the world closer to full inclusion.

Mia-Marie Fields ’24 (Syracuse University student)

Fields, majoring in biomedical engineering and neuroscience in the College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS), exemplifies the values of scholarship, service, social justice and inclusion. In her time at Syracuse University, she has helped to develop a portable breast cancer detection device addressing healthcare inequities in resource-limited countries; assisted in updating the Dean’s Advisory Panel in ECS; worked with a team to re-design the interior of 119 Euclid; and introduced Kevin Richardson of the “Exonerated 5” at the Black Excellence Gala. Fields is known to be both selfless and humble in her many pursuits.

Elbethel Berhane (Community youth)

Currently a senior at Jamesville-DeWitt High School, Berhane began her work with the Umoja/Kente Club as a first-year student and has continued her service by becoming the co-student advisor in her senior year. Last summer, she became certified and trained through the Student Coalition on Race and Equity, an initiative that accesses the talent and skills of students to eliminate racism in their community, starting in their school district. She currently works with People In Action and teaches Bible stories and lessons in the Amharic language to elementary school children at the Ethiopian Orthodox Church in Baldwinsville, New York.

Murjan Abdi (Community member)

A dedicated leader, Abdi uplifts his community with tremendous commitment. A proud graduate of the Syracuse City School District, he joined the Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY), serving in the field of workforce development. Prior to his work at MACNY, Murjan was an integral part of Onondaga Community College, significantly impacting the Educational Opportunity Program and the Collegiate Science Technical Entry Program. As a former peer financial mentor at CNY Works, Murjan’s unique ability to connect with young people catalyzed positive transformations in Syracuse. His commitment to community development inspires hope for a more inclusive future in Syracuse.

At the heart of the movement were the non-violent, civil disobedience teachings of the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the civil rights leader who inspired Black citizens around the country to speak out and stand up for their constitutional rights.

Professor emeritus Roosevelt “Rick” Wright, who participated in the Civil Rights Movement sit-ins and demonstrations, learned invaluable life lessons by meeting and dining with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Wright had the pleasure of meeting and eating with Dr. King several times as a teenager, as his Sunday school teacher was King’s sister-in-law, Edith Scott Bagley. Those Sunday evening suppers saw Wright consume much more than fried chicken, ham, collard greens, candied yams, potato salad and snap beans: He hung on King’s every word as the eloquent reverend imparted life lessons on the impressionable Wright.

Words of wisdom that, more than 55 years after King’s death, still resonate loud and clear with Wright.

“The most important thing Dr. King impressed on me was the need for education. He would say, ‘Roosevelt, one of the problems here in America is that we as African Americans were brought to this country as slaves to work the fields and the agriculture of the South. Technically our families built this country for free as slaves,’” Wright says.

“Dr. King said that America has got to wake up from this idea of white superiority. They are immediately taught at birth that African Americans were inferior, dumb and stupid, and that their worst was better than your very best. How do we get past this? Education and schooling. Get smart. And he preached how to handle incredible challenges of conflict through non-violent protest. While we were sitting at those lunch counters, I remember white kids coming in calling us every name in the world. They threw hot water on us, hot sauce in our faces and everything. And we just sat there and took it.”

Dr. King’s message and mission will be honored at the University’s 39th Annual on Sunday, Jan. 21, the largest event of its kind held on a college campus.

Roosevelt “Rick” Wright.

In this “’Cuse Conversation,” Wright recalls the powerful impact Dr. King made on him, shares how Dr. King utilized the radio to preach his non-violent message and how Dr. King’s oratorical prowess inspired his successful career as both a radio broadcaster and television, radio and film professor at the .

Wright, who became the first Black communications professor at Newhouse, was the first faculty advisor for the student-run radio station WJPZ and served as��faculty manager for WAER. He was an invaluable resource for the thousands of students who took one of his classes, and is the definition of “Major Market.”

Check out featuring Wright. A transcript [PDF] is also available.

To express the celebration theme of “The Reach of the Dream,” seven local artists were selected to show their works in the specially designed gallery, which will be open to the public on Sunday, Jan. 21, before and during the celebration dinner. The art gallery will open at 4:15 p.m. and the dinner will begin at 5 p.m. For more information, visit .

“Resilience” by London Ladd

The exhibition will spotlight artists Sharif Bey, London Ladd, David MacDonald, Brandan Meyer, Rochele Royster, Melquea Smith and Iris Williams. Curators for the exhibition include Qiana Williams, Jaleel Campbell and Cjala Surratt of the Black Artists’ Collective; Ken Harper, associate professor of visual communications and art curator in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications; Ajajielle Brown of the Department of African American Studies, Emily Dittman of the Syracuse University Art Museum and Dara Harper of Hendricks Chapel.

The artists

Sharif Bey is associate professor of studio arts (ceramics) in the School of Art in the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA). Shortly after the fall of the Soviet Union, Bey studied sculpture at the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Bratislava, Slovakia. Later, he earned his B.F.A. from Slippery Rock University, his M.F.A. from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, and Ph.D. (in art education) from Penn State University. His awards include the United States Artist Fellowship, the Pollock-Krasner Fellowship and the New York Foundation for the Arts Fellowship. Bey’s works are featured in numerous public collections including the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s Renwick Gallery, the Museum of Fine Arts in Houston, the Carnegie Museum of Art, the Columbus Museum, the Dallas Museum of Art, the Mint Museum and the Nelson Atkins Museum, among others.

“Untitled” by Brandan Meyer

London Ladd, instructor of illustration in the School of Art in VPA, has had his work featured in critically acclaimed picture books, newspapers, magazines and community-based murals. His artwork is a mixture of acrylic paint, cut paper and tissue paper, creating rich, vibrant textures. Ladd’s illustrations can be found in the books“Black Gold,” “Oprah: The Little Speaker,” “Under the Freedom Tree” and “March On!: The Day My Brother Martin Changed the World.”

David R. MacDonald, professor emeritus in VPA, is an acclaimed and celebrated ceramic artist. MacDonald joined the faculty of the School of Art and Design in 1971. During the late 1970s and early 1980s, MacDonald’s work received most of its creative inspiration from his investigation of his African heritage. MacDonald draws much of his inspiration from the myriad examples of surface decoration that manifests itself in the many ethnic groups of sub-Saharan Africa. MacDonald’s work spans the complete spectrum of ceramic forms of a utilitarian nature.

Brandan Meyer is a ceramicist from Syracuse. Studying at SUNY Oswego, his primary focus is on evolving his craft as a ceramic artist and exploring his capabilities through the medium. This is expressed through his pottery, as well as his experimentation with clay instruments. Finding inspiration from his political ideologies, familial heritage and personal connections, he creates work that not only reflects his roots, but sparks conversation that revolves around culture, empathy and unity.

“Fractured Expectations” by Rochelle Royster

Rochele Royster, assistant professor of art therapy in VPA,�� is a seasoned artist, community psychologist and educator who finds inspiration from people and community. Her upbringing, immersed in the rhythms of the South, was a fertile ground for creativity, where she learned the importance of the connection to land, rituals, and customs, and people. Proficient in quilting, printmaking, and various dye and resist techniques, Royster breathes new life into discarded materials, crafting narratives that echo themes of blackness and the resilience of ordinary individuals navigating worlds where patterns become as integral as the people they adorn. Through a meticulous examination of life’s rhythms, Royster invites viewers to reflect on the resilience and beauty that persist amidst life’s clutter and chaos.

Melquea Smith is a Black, Queer, multi award-winning children’s book illustrator based in New York. Known as a certified kid at heart, she adores illustrating magical stories with animals, mythological creatures and dragons. She specializes in illustrating Black children of all shapes, colors and sizes. When not illustrating, you’ll find her watching the newest animated movies, learning about Japan, studying Spanish with her cat Kilala, and giving love to her other cat, Bumblebee.

“The Biggest Gift” by Melquea Smith

Iris Williams is a visual artist born and raised in Syracuse. She has a passion for bringing her creative ideas to life. She is heavily influenced by the Black community and finds it important to find innovative ways to include, empower and represent it in her projects. She experiments with various art forms, refusing to limit herself to just one. However, her authentic and creative expression has led her to develop a particular interest in digital art.

“We’re excited to highlight the talents of these extraordinary Black artists and champion the richness of Syracuse’s artistic community,” says Cjala Surratt, co-founder of the Black Artists Collective and member of the MLK Art Gallery Committee. “This exhibition recognizes both established and emerging talent within Syracuse’s artistic landscape and promises to be a source of inspiration for individuals of all ages. We hope to spark creativity, ignite curiosity and foster a deeper connection with the arts.”

“Wrapped in Iris” by Iris Williams

More information on the celebration

Tickets for the dinner and program, which will include student and community group performances, presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards and a keynote address from Talithia Williams, .

For more information about the MLK Celebration or to request accommodations, contact Hendricks Chapel at��chapel@syr.edu��or 315.443.2901. Learn more about this and other Hendricks Chapel events by visiting .

Talithia Williams

Talithia Williams, Ph.D., big data expert, math professor and host of “NOVA Wonders,” will serve as featured speaker at the 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Sunday, Jan. 21, in the JMA Wireless Dome.

This year’s theme is “The Reach of the Dream.”

Tickets for the dinner and program��.

This annual event is the largest of its kind on any college campus. The program seeks to honor the message and mission of King and is a direct expression of the University’s commitment to advancing academic excellence at a university welcoming to all.

“We are honored and delighted to welcome Dr. Talithia Williams to Syracuse as our featured speaker for the 39th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr event. As we prepare to remember and honor the roots of a dream that continue to inform and inspire, Dr. Williams serves as a living reminder of how far the dream can reach,” says Dean Brian Konkol of Hendricks Chapel. “Through her groundbreaking research and steadfast commitment to community impact, Dr. Williams is transforming the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. At our upcoming event, I am confident that learners of all ages will be left inspired to dream big and strive to make such dreams come true.”

Williams, associate professor of mathematics and Mathematics Clinic director at Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, California, is an innovative statistician, co-host of the PBS series “NOVA Wonders” and a speaker whose popular TED Talk, “Own Your Body’s Data,” extols the value of statistics in quantifying personal health information. Williams demystifies the mathematical process in amusing and insightful ways to excite students, parents, educators and the larger community about STEM education and its possibilities.

Williams graduated from Spelman College and Howard University, and then later received a Ph.D. from Rice University. Her research involves developing statistical models that emphasize the spatial and temporal structure of data and applying them to problems in the environment. She’s worked at NASA, the National Security Agency and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, and has partnered with the World Health Organization on research regarding cataract surgical rates in African countries.

At Syracuse University Williams’ topic will be “Becoming an Agent of Change for Inclusive Education.” By showing how educational systems are microcosms of our increasingly diverse society, Williams will address how to close achievement gaps and serve as inclusive agents of positive and profound change. In her keynote presentation, Williams hopes to inspire educators and learners or all ages by showing how data can be utilized to promote diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.

“As a neurodivergent nontraditional student, I am excited to hear Dr. Williams speak about the importance of diversity and inclusion within education,” says Leondra Tyler ’24, co-chair of the 2024 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. “I believe it is important to shed light on how we can pave the way for future academics and leaders who will bring positive change to our world.”

The 2024 program will include an address from Williams, student and community group performances, and a presentation of this year’s .

The newly introduced art gallery that features works from local Black artists will open at 4:15 p.m. The traditional dinner will open at 5 p.m. Halal/Kosher, gluten-free and vegetarian options will be available. Dinner will be held near the JMA Dome’s west end zone, entry at Gate A. The main program with Williams and performers will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the east side. For program-only attendees, doors open at 6 p.m.

Ticket purchase options are as follows:

• Syracuse University staff, faculty and the general public (dinner and program): $30
• Students (dinner and program): $15
• Main program only: Free

Registration is required for all ticket purchase options.

All dinner tickets will be assigned a table number at the time of purchase, which will be included in the mobile tickets. Guests interested in sitting with friends are recommended to purchase tickets together to ensure the same table assignment.

Guests may order up to 10 dinner and program tickets online. To purchase one full table (10 seats), select 10 total tickets and proceed to checkout. To purchase more than one table or more than 10 individual tickets, or if experiencing difficulties, please call the JMA Dome Box Office at 1.888.DOME.TIX (315.443.2121), option four.

All dinner guests will be seated in the 100 level of the stands for the program following dinner. All guests attending the program only will be seated in the 200 level. Seating is general admission in those areas for the program.

Buy tickets online at��, in person at the Dome Box Office inside Gate B at 900 Irving Ave. (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) or by phone (888.DOME.TIX or 315.443.2121, option four). Tickets will be mobile and will be uploaded directly to your MyCuse account to manage upon purchase. View the for more information.

Free parking is available in the Irving Avenue Garage and in lots west of the JMA Dome. Visit the University’s for maps and directions. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be available at the event. Accessible seating is provided on the concourse level of the JMA Dome.

For more information about the MLK Celebration or to request accommodations, contact Hendricks Chapel at��chapel@syr.edu��or 315.443.2901. Learn more about this and other Hendricks Chapel events by visiting .

As part of the MLK Jr. Celebration, several community members who embody the spirit of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. receive the Unsung Hero Award.

The award seeks to honor the life and legacy of individuals who exemplify the spirit, life and teachings of Dr. King yet have not received widespread recognition or been previously honored for their efforts. These individuals represent a direct expression of the University’s commitment to fostering and supporting a university welcoming to all.

If you know an individual who should be honored and celebrated, please consider nominating them for the 2024 celebration.

included University staff member Nichole Henry, student Thomas Wilson ’23, Syracuse community members and more. Nominations may be made in any of the following categories:

• youth/teen from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• adult from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• currently enrolled student at Syracuse University or the SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF)
• faculty or staff from Syracuse University or SUNY ESF

The Unsung Hero Award nominations are due by Wednesday, Dec. 6, at 11:59 p.m. Nomination forms can be found��on the .

The 2024 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration will take place on Jan. 21, 2024, in the JMA Wireless Dome. Further information will be announced in the coming weeks at .

Questions regarding the Unsung Hero Awards can be directed to Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu.

Nichole Henry

Henry, director of admissions and recruitment in the College of Professional Studies, was told the good news by her colleague Marissa Willingham, a member of the MLK Jr. Celebration Committee and manager of the Intercultural Collective.

“I asked her, ‘The Unsung Hero? The MLK Unsung Hero?’” Henry says. ��When Willingham confirmed, Henry says she was in shock and in tears. “I didn’t do anything special. I just do what I love to do.”

Henry has devoted her professional career to welcoming and recruiting hundreds of students to Syracuse, through the College of Law and now in her current role.

She is also committed to students through her volunteer work as a dialogue facilitator for InterFaith Works, a FullCircle mentor and a lead instructor with First-Year Seminar.

For those who know Henry, her work, her care for students and her enthusiasm for higher education are an exemplary example of someone behind the scenes moving others forward.

Henry credits others around her for propelling her in the work that she does.

“I am so humbled and blessed to be named an Unsung Hero because I didn’t get here by myself. I’m recognized because I have been surrounded by, fostered by, comforted by and encouraged by so many individuals on this campus who go unnoticed,” Henry says.

At the MLK Jr. Celebration, Henry says they all walked the stage with her in spirit.

“I stand on their shoulders, humbly and lightly, because of what they’ve done for me,” Henry says.

Commitment to Community

Jimmy Luckman, associate director for First-Year Seminar, nominated Henry in a recommendation because of her commitment to the University and Syracuse communities, including her work as president of the Delta Alpha Gamma Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., which supports student scholarship. In the nomination, he weaved in comments from other individuals in support of Henry’s recognition.

Nichole Henry receives the Unsung Hero Award from Chancellor Kent Syverud during the 38th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration in January. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

“Nichole has been a visionary leader within��Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. and has reimagined how to support students through the admissions��process,” Luckman says. “Her warmth and love radiates to all those around her, so it was an easy decision to work with other members of the community to nominate her for this recognition.”

In her admissions role, Henry enjoys building relationships with all of those around her—mentors who’ve been at the University for many years and those coming up from the next generation—and make connections between everyone she meets, to empower others to find their passions and pursue their goals.

Henry calls her work in admissions “an energetic lifeline,” connecting her to the work that she loves to do. “You just have to really love what you do, and you have to love students and you have to love education,” she says. “Education is an outlet for people to do better, learn better, live better.”

Advocate for Students

Henry, who is pursuing a Ed.D. in educational executive leadership from St. John Fisher University, has also devoted time and her doctoral research to the advancement of students through the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP). Henry, who was an EOP student (the name of the program at public colleges) at SUNY Oswego, has been a strong advocate for the role of such programs that provide various forms of support for those from marginalized backgrounds to succeed in higher education.

Henry has focused her research on such programs and advocating for the needs of students because she knows the benefits herself as an EOP recipient and the empowering effect such resources can have.

“My son has a learning disability; he has always struggled with reading. And it was a struggle for me with the school system to find the right way to deal with the issues,” Henry says. “Black males are at risk out of every population that goes into higher education—they have the highest dropout rate and they are at the highest rate among those who say they don’t feel a sense of belonging.”

Henry wants to know why they—along with other students from marginalized groups—drop out and how that can be fixed.

Nichole Henry and Jimmy Luckman at the 38th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration in January

“How can we create a healthy, positive bridge for them to come to school and be successful here?” she says. “Syracuse University is a place with the tools,” she says, but we need to make sure they know the tools are here to help them.

Henry describes herself as someone who looks at the glass as half full but is centered in reality through her own experiences, growing up in a disadvantaged community in Brooklyn but finding a path to her goals through education.

“I understand that if we try as individuals, as educators, to recognize every student in the room, we can make such a great impact,” she says.

Winning the Unsung Hero Award also has given Henry more impetus to continue in the work she does.

“I have to continue to actively engage with like-minded individuals who want to do social action; civil engagement; diversity, equity and inclusion work; education work—those who are looking to encourage students in that capacity,” Henry says. “I have to take them as far as I can and let them blaze new paths.”

Jessica McGhee ’19

Her resume would reveal a 2019 B.F.A. recipient from the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA), a current graduate student in VPA’s art therapy program, an intern with a local hospital, an aspiring nonprofit leader, and a volunteer, instructor and arts programming coordinator with La Casita Cultural Center.

But she might describe herself in different terms—as a lifelong artist, a people watcher, a witness and observer of beauty, a survivor of intimate partner violence and sexual trauma, and an adamant believer in the power of art therapy.

“I love seeing the beauty in people, and oftentimes they cannot see it in themselves. I feel like being as I’m able to see it, it’s my job to communicate it,” McGhee says.

An artist from a young age, she is primarily a painter of surrealist landscapes, often created with mixed medias and on material that would otherwise be disposed of. Her work, with titles like “Roots,” “Mother Sun,” “Self-Actualization” and “On Coexistence,” evokes spirituality, connection to nature, self-expression, exploration of race and the prevalence of inner strength.

“My art has always tried to show people their value, the complexity of life, the complexity of existence in this physical place,” she says.

“On Coexistence” (mixed media on wood) by Jessica McGhee (Photo courtesy of the artist)

Art as a Therapeutic Intervention

Perhaps it was destiny that in 2019, the year McGhee graduated with a B.F.A., VPA announced the launch of its M.S. program in art therapy, housed in the Department of Creative Arts Therapy. She was intrigued by the program and eventually became part of its , beginning in the Fall 2021 semester.

McGhee says the program puts terminology and theory to what she felt she was already doing through her creative pursuits.

“Before I started the program, I feel I was doing art therapy with myself—but not fully understanding what was coming out,” she says. “I always learned a lot from my art and my creative investigation, but being in the program ties everything together and makes a lot of sense.”

Currently, McGhee puts theory into practice as an intern with a local hospital’s inpatient substance use disorder unit. She designed and facilitates a 28-day art therapy program that complements other treatment modalities for people with alcohol and substance use disorders.

Her clients receive support as they stabilize, build self-worth and find self-forgiveness, all critical to the recovery process, through principles of art therapy. “I teach about symbolism and metaphor, and it comes through in their artwork in ways that are so insightful,” McGhee says.

Based on her belief that substance use disorders are often a maladaptive response to trauma, McGhee emphasizes the importance of self-expression in healing and hopes to inspire others to find their purpose through art therapy.

“Once an individual can let go of all of the suffering and pain and actually start to investigate and get curious about their own interests, that’s when self-actualization comes to play,” she says.

Broadening her work beyond the hospital setting, McGhee holds multiple roles with , including volunteering with an Arts as Mindfulness group run by fellow art therapy student Bennie Guzman. The program is for adults to enjoy a space for creativity and self-reflection, build on community, manage stress and develop their creative expression.

“I teach different coping skills, meditation, strengths-based exercises and creative investigation into the self,” McGhee says. She is currently planning a community care workshop on April 3 at the .

Integrative Modalities

While art therapy is her main focus, McGhee incorporates other healing modalities into her work with clients and in the community.

Influenced by the principles of somatic therapy—which draws connections between emotions and where they are experienced in the physical body—she incorporates principles of vipassana (a Buddhist meditation technique), body scans, nature-based therapy and strengths assessments (she is fond of the ).

She explains that our emotional memories, particularly memories of traumatic origin, tend to be stored in the part of our brain that is non-verbal, or in the body, and surface later through these non-verbal realms—so practices that get us out of our brains and more connected to our bodies can help.

“All of those emotions and feelings, everything that’s going on inside of you, all of that nonverbal suffering… you can externalize it,” McGhee says. “In talk therapy, oftentimes you can re-experience the moment, and it can be re-traumatizing each time you bring it out of your mouth. But if you’re putting it on paper as it feels inside of you, then you’re actually exercising those emotions. You’re analyzing them, you’re investigating them, but you aren’t reprocessing that exact moment of trauma.”

Therapeutic Works on Display

Earlier this year, McGhee was invited to show her artwork at the University’s 38th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration as part of the held in the Club 44 VIP lounge in the JMA Wireless Dome.

“Never had I imagined I would be a part of something so big and so amazing,” she says of the experience, noting how surreal it was for her to see her art displayed on the JMA Dome’s giant videoboards. McGhee curated nine original works for the celebration, which welcomed over 2,000 students, faculty, staff and community members on Jan. 22.

The event was envisioned as a way for participants to celebrate the richness of Syracuse’s culture and beauty, in reflection of the theme of this year’s MLK Celebration, “Civil Rights and the City of Syracuse.” McGhee exhibited alongside fellow artists David R. MacDonald, Jaleel Campbell and Vanessa Johnson. Two pieces exhibited—“Self Actualization” (mixed media on a wood triptych) and “Rebirth” (mask)—were created as response art to her therapeutic work.

McGhee connects with a community member at the 2023 MLK Celebration in Club 44 of the JMA Wireless Dome. (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

“I was honored to be a part of the exhibition—it made me feel really wonderful,” McGhee says.

In the Works: Nonprofit Community Retreat Center

Upon graduating from the art therapy program next May, McGhee has aspirations to launch a Syracuse-based nonprofit offering alternative therapy services in a retreat-based setting to trauma survivors, regardless of their ability to pay. She and business partner Azra Gradincic have begun laying the groundwork to bring this dream to fruition.

The nonprofit, tentatively named , will offer inclusive access to integrative, holistic healing. Their ambition is to remove the financial barriers that often accompany retreat-style healing settings by offering a sliding-scale or free financial model, while also accepting Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance.

“I see a secure setting where people can heal and rebuild and have dedicated break time, when they aren’t trying to survive their day-to-day life, but can really focus on their personal needs and healing,” McGhee says.

McGhee with her painting “Lexical Priming” (mixed media on wood) at the 2023 MLK Celebration. (Photo by Angela Ryan)

To learn more about McGhee, visit . Her work is currently on display at (400 S. Salina St., Syracuse), Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and she plans to exhibit at La Casita later this spring.

Syracuse University’s 38th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration looked back on the legacy of Dr. King and showcased how his legacy is being carried forth in the community today.

Artist Jaleel Campbell with his work (Photos by Angela Ryan)

The program was preceded by a traditional dinner and, new this year, an art exhibition in the JMA Wireless Dome’s Club 44 featuring the work of four local artists: Syracuse University Professor Emeritus David MacDonald, Jaleel Campbell, Jessica McGhee ’19 and Vanessa Johnson.

The theme of the celebration, emceed by Iris St. Meran, reporter with NewsChannel 9, was “Civil Rights and the City of Syracuse.” The keynote speaker was the Rev. Phil Turner, pastor of Bethany Baptist Church in Syracuse.

“In choosing this theme, the planning team sought to highlight the timeless values that Martin Luther King Jr. taught through his example: the values of courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, humility and service. We want to apply that here and now in the City of Syracuse,” said Malique Lewis ’24, who served as co-chair of the celebration with the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “This annual celebration in general, and our 2023 theme in particular, is intended to be a direct expression of our collective commitment to foster and support an inclusive and accessible campus community.”

Guests enjoy the traditional dinner before the program.

Before his invocation, Dean Konkol asked those gathered to remember the loved ones of Brexialee Torres-Ortiz, an 11-year-old Syracuse resident shot and killed steps from her home on Jan. 16 after purchasing milk at the corner store.

“To honor her this evening, to comfort those both near and far who grieve the impact of violence and to compel all people of goodwill into action, I ask for a moment of silence,” he said.

Chancellor Kent Syverud, in his remarks, spoke of the 1961 speech that Dr. King made on the Syracuse University campus (Dr. King also spoke on campus in 1965).

“He said, among other things, this: ‘As a people, we will someday have to repent, not only the vitriolic words of bad people, but the silent indifference of the good.’ I find these words especially poignant today,” he said.

The MLK Community Choir performs during the program.

“There is no room for bystanders today. Each of us must play a role in confronting injustice and inequality and indifference,” Chancellor Syverud said. “For Dr. King, the definition of the American Dream was different from that of so many others in his time. He defined the dream as being about people, about being a place where all nationalities could live together as brothers.”

“That dream aligns with what we aspire to on this campus. We aspire to be a place that is genuinely welcoming to all,” he said.

Rev. Turner, in his keynote address, spoke on “Planting New Seeds and Cultivating a New Culture.” He talked of growing up in the South and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and singing patriotic songs in his segregated school. “Like most people born in America, I was taught to love my country. While I was loving my country, I began to realize that the pledges in those songs were not intended to be shared with me. As a little boy, I was disheartened. … Where were the good and decent people and why didn’t they take a stand to stop this inhumane condition?”

The Rev. Phil Turner gives the keynote address.

No problem has ever been solved that was neglected, Rev. Turner said. In 1960, George Wiley became one of the first African American faculty members at Syracuse University.�� During that time, he became the founder and leader of the Syracuse chapter of the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE). Around the same time. Urban renewal projects and the construction of Interstate 81 led to the destruction of the city’s 15th Ward, Syracuse’s African American neighborhood. Members of the University community worked to help those who were disenfranchised, Rev. Turner said. In 1963, CORE created the Committee on Equality at Syracuse University to spotlight areas where civil�� rights were violated. “There was nothing unique about racial conditions in Syracuse; it was simply a microcosm of racial issues in America,” Rev. Turner said.

In a 1967 speech at Stanford University, Dr. King spoke of two Americas—one of liberty and the pursuit of happiness and one with people mired in poverty. “As I researched these two Americas, I found that race is not a valid biological concept,” Rev. Turner said. “Race is a made-up social construct that gives or denies benefits and privileges based on skin color and other physical features.”

Brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha perform during the program.

“The time has come for untruths to be abandoned. The time has come and as untruths are abandoned, we must put truth in its place so we can begin to build a respectful and caring culture,” said Rev. Turner. “America was founded on seeds of untruth, and the motive was fueled by the pursuit of money, material gain and power. … “We’ve been trying to fix a racial divide that was designed to never be fixed. Therefore we must abandon what has grown from the seeds of untruths.

“Now that the truth has been revealed we have an obligation to plant new seeds of truth that will sprout and grow into healthy communities. We can plant seeds of respect for our fellow human beings that will grow into safe communities,” he said. “Let’s plant seeds of dignity to that every person can feel value. Let’s plant the seeds of care so that we don’t have to live in isolation from each other. Let’s plant seeds of hope so that our children will have equal opportunity. And a culture like this can never be possible unless we dispose of untruths and replace them with the truth.”

Throughout the evening performances were given by Eesa Grayson, the MLK Community Choir, the Royalty Step Team, Brianna Gilyard ’23 and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

One way Dr. King’s legacy is being carried forth is through the Unsung Hero Award recipients, community members, students, faculty and staff who have made a positive impact on the lives of others but are not widely recognized for their contributions. The awards were created to honor Dr. King’s vision of creating positive change in a troubled world.

The 2023 recipients are Nichole Henry (SU staff member), Candice Ogbu ’23 (SU student), Thomas J. Wilson (SU student), Oceanna Fair (community member), and Trinity Brumfield and Camille Ogden, juniors at West Genesee High School in Syracuse (community youth).

�ճ����2021�����Ի���2022��Unsung Heroes were also recognized this year as they were unable to be recognized in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Unsung Hero Award is given to community members, students, faculty and staff who have made a positive impact on the lives of others but are not widely recognized for their contributions. The awards were created to honor Dr. King’s vision of creating positive change in a troubled world.

The award winners will be recognized at the 38th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. Additionally, the 2021 and 2022 Unsung Heroes will be recognized this year since they were unable to be applauded in person due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2023 celebration will be held on Sunday, Jan. 22, with dinner at 5 p.m. and the event at 7 p.m. featuring keynote speaker Rev. Phil Turner. Tickets for the celebration are available at .

Read more about the 2023 Unsung Hero awardees below.

Nichole Henry (Syracuse University Staff)

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. stated that building community requires “a qualitative change in our souls as well as a quantitative change in our lives.” This powerful proclamation reflects Nichole Henry’s 20-year impact at Syracuse University.

Nichole Henry

Henry has devoted her professional career to welcoming and recruiting students to Syracuse, which is evident through her work within the College of Law, admissions and in her current role as the director of admissions and recruitment in the College of Professional Studies.

Henry has helped hundreds of students gain access to higher education because of her persistence to learn more about supporting post-traditional students and empowering such students to continue their quest of lifelong learning. In addition to her work in admissions, Henry has devoted time, energy and her doctoral research to the Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP). She has balanced work and life responsibilities along with her advocacy efforts of supporting those from marginalized backgrounds both through academic studies and her everyday lived experiences.

For Henry, creating a welcoming environment does not focus solely on the process before students arrive on campus or begin virtual classes. Her commitment is evident in her volunteer work as a dialogue facilitator for InterFaith Works, a FullCircle Mentor, as well as being a lead instructor of First-Year Seminar.

Henry’s legacy of leadership extends outside of the classroom and beyond her office, as she currently serves as president and charter member of the Delta Alpha Gamma Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. Henry has demonstrated engagement within the community as she has worked with her sorority sisters to offer scholarships to local women that aspire to further their education and has expanded ways to engage in the Central New York region. She reflects the ideals of her sorority by engaging in “scholarship, service, sisterhood and finer womanhood,” in all that she does in the community and in her work to continue to uphold, lift up and empower all members of the community.

Candice Ogbu (Syracuse University Student)

Candice Ogbu

Candice Ogbu ’23, a double major in neuroscience and psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences, has worked with different organizations within the Syracuse community to develop a positive lasting bond.

In response to racial injustices affecting Black, brown and Asian individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ogbu sought to work closely with numerous units and organizations to define and impact change in our society.

During her tenure as chair of the Student Association’s Diversity and Inclusion committee, Ogbu created multiple programs and hosted events, including a panel of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) Syracuse professionals to visit with Syracuse University and Nottingham High School students about pushing beyond their perceived limitations and seeking bold opportunities.

She invited speakers like Marc Lamont Hill to discuss racial discrimination in modern society and what we can do as individuals to create positive change. Partnering with the sustainability committee of the Student Association, Ogbu implemented green days where students volunteered to clean Syracuse community parks and gardens. Doing community outreach led her to apply for two separate internships—working as a peer health advocate (PHA) at Planned Parenthood and as a COVID-19 impact analyst with the City of Syracuse.

As a PHA, Ogbu helped develop a mental health retreat hosted by Planned Parenthood. This three-day event involved workshops, mindfulness activities and lectures from mental health professionals. The program is now used as a model for other Syracuse organizations hosting mental health retreats. Additionally, during her time at Planned Parenthood, Ogbu helped implement a city-wide resource list, with each section focused on a category of need within the Syracuse community and lists of possible resources open to the public.

Ogbu is now planning to create a campus organization called PP Generation, focusing on student leaders looking to advocate for sexual, reproductive and gender rights. Her community outreach does not end at Planned Parenthood. She was a key figure during the COVID-19 pandemic in implementing a testing system for essential city workers. Like Dr. King, Candice thinks of what can be done and is not afraid to take the initiative to make her dreams a reality.

Thomas J. Wilson (Syracuse University Student)

Thomas Wilson, a student in InclusiveU through the Taishoff Center for Inclusive Higher Education, embodies Dr. King’s legacy through his love and support for the Syracuse University community.

Thomas Wilson

Wilson is a frequent visitor and friend of many areas across the University community. A senior double majoring in broadcast and digital journalism and political science, Wilson is a news anchor at Citrus TV where “he loves to deliver the news.” Through an internship with Orange Television Network, he is also executive producer and show creator of “Thomas on the Town,” a show where he goes “into the field” interviewing Syracuse University community members on a wide variety of topics.

Wilson’s ability to connect with people and share stories is a remarkable resource for the Syracuse University community. Thomas immerses himself into campus life through internships and his work at Schine Student Center. He often shows his support of and interest in the community by showing up. He cares enough to take the time to learn.

Wilson is highly involved with the Syracuse University Catholic Center. At Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday Masses in the Catholic community, both at Hendricks Chapel and at the Catholic Center’s St. Thomas More Chapel, he puts the books away and makes sure all is set for the next scheduled mass. After Thursday Mass at the Catholic Center, at their “Community Night Dinner,” Wilson’s engaging personality and kind, attentive presence is frequently sought out at whatever table he chooses to sit.

He is a person that individuals naturally gravitate toward because of his generous demeanor, his skill to be an active listener and the confidence he exudes. Wilson’s ability to connect with others through these traits, as well as the professional and educational skills he has developed during his time on campus, will make him a natural leader for our future.

Trinity Brumfield and Camille Ogden (Community Youth)

Trinity Brumfield and Camille Ogden represent a generation of young, Black women who embody the life and legacy of Dr. King through their vision, efforts and commitment to diversity, equality, inclusion and accessibility.

Trinity Brumfield

Brumfield and Ogden seek to be advocates for justice in their high school. Currently juniors at West Genesee High School, they attempt to pursue change with diligence and positivity.

Founding members and co-presidents of Umoja, a student-led group at West Genesee High School that was created to actively unite students of all races around issues of diversity, equity and inclusion, Brumfield and Ogden believe they are beneficiaries of the legacies of previous generations of change-makers. They have been certified and trained through the Student Coalition on Race Equity, an initiative that accesses the talent and skills of students to eliminate racism in their community, starting in their own school

Camille Ogden

district. Over the course of four weeks, Brumfield and Ogden were provided in-depth training in three core topic areas: implicit bias, white privilege and Black history.

Both women were selected to serve on the Superintendent’s Advisory Council and also serve as members of the West Genesee Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Council. They are committed to creating and maintaining change in their school and district, and believe it to be their responsibility to ensure that younger students understand the importance of advocacy for racial justice and equality. They perceive their efforts as legacy in action, as they have been privileged to speak to middle school students in their district about DEI and help grow chapters.

Brumfield and Ogden serve as members of the Restorative Council, which helps determine appropriate consequences when there is an incident at their school; co-chair the Justice, Equity and Diversity Inclusion group that develops ways to make progress; have formed and hosted lunch groups to meet with teachers and staff to have crucial conversations about their beliefs; helped to develop a film dealing with diversity that staff are required to view; and volunteered at church through working with special needs children in the youth ministry.

Oceanna Fair (Community Member)

Oceanna Fair is a Syracuse native, educator and activist who has amplified the issue of childhood lead poisoning in Onondaga County. During her childhood years, Fair’s brother was impacted by lead poisoning, and he suffered debilitating effects which severely compromised his quality of life. Fair has spoken often about her brother, and highlights his lifetime of dependent care directly related to lead poisoning.

Oceanna Fair

In addition to her brother, Fair’s granddaughter would later receive test results for a high level of lead in her blood, which fueled Fair’s ongoing struggle to prevent and intervene on behalf of Syracuse’s most vulnerable community members—children. Her advocacy is to prevent lead poisoning for all, but especially for Black and brown children who are disproportionately affected and who more often than not live below the poverty line in historically red-lined neighborhoods. Her selfless work to bring awareness to the lead crisis in Syracuse has elevated understanding of the issue and was the impetus for the formation of the grassroots organization Families for Lead Freedom Now, which was founded in 2019 by a group of mothers seeking change. She currently serves as Southside branch leader.

Fair has worked at the local, state and federal level to advocate for stronger lead laws and policies that protect families and provide outreach. She has discussed childhood lead prevention at national forums and conferences. This vital advocacy work was instrumental in passing the City of Syracuse’s Lead Ordinance in 2020.

As a change agent, Fair has helped support many families struggling with childhood lead poisoning and provided resources to others for prevention. She has amplified this issue and has fostered partnerships with other grassroots organizations and across state and regional networks. With champions like her, the Syracuse community has witnessed an increase in more families becoming aware. Her vital work has supported those who have been most impacted by historic disinvestment and structural racism. Through her own family’s experience with generational lead poisoning, Fair made a longstanding commitment to eradicating this preventable public health problem.

WSYR-TV news reporter Iris St. Meran will emcee Sunday’s 38th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

“Iris St. Meran is a respected journalist, trusted community member, inspirational storyteller and thought leader,” says , dean of Hendricks Chapel. “As we prepare for our first in-person MLK Celebration since January of 2020, Iris St. Meran is the right person for this important time, and I am excited that she accepted the invitation to participate.”

The featured speaker at this year’s celebration is Rev. Phil Turner, pastor of Bethany Baptist Church. Turner’s theme is “Civil Rights and the City of Syracuse.”

The University’s celebration is the largest of its kind on any college campus, featuring performances, dinner, and the presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards.�� is free and open to all members of the University community.

As the University prepares to honor the message, mission and legacy of Dr. King during the 38th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Sunday, Jan. 22, in the JMA Wireless Dome—the largest of its kind on any college campus—the celebration’s featured speaker, Reverend Phil Turner of Bethany Baptist Church in Syracuse, has spent countless hours researching Dr. King’s visits to Syracuse.

This year’s theme is “Civil Rights and the City of Syracuse,” and in devising his remarks, Turner has turned to the past, relying on the lessons and morals preached by King to Syracuse’s students and faculty during trips to Syracuse in the summers of 1961 and 1965 for inspiration.

“When Dr. King spoke, his words were so piercing because they came from truth, his inner light and compassion,” says Rev. Turner. “I want to communicate to the audience that there’s still hope for that unified American society that Dr. King spoke of. In America, our fixation on race, on power and on money causes us to miss the fact that what has always made America great, that which made our country what it is in the world, is its diverse population. That’s what caused America to stand out.”

Reverend Phil Turner, featured speaker at the 38th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Sunday, Jan. 22 (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

It’s a welcome task for Turner, who while remaining humble is proud to boast several similarities to Dr. King. Both men played instrumental roles in their church and in their communities. Both men share a birthday (April 15). Both men were passionate about lifting up their fellow Americans. And Turner was born in the same city (Memphis, Tennessee) where Dr. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968.

Dr. King first spoke on campus during a Summer Sessions Banquet lecture titled “Facing the Challenge of a New World,” in July of 1961 at Sadler Hall. Dr. King delved into the ideals America was built upon, and how the country was not doing its part to live up to the lofty standard it claimed to hold itself to.

There are tremendous similarities between this speech and Dr. King’s iconic “I have a Dream” speech, delivered in Washington, D.C., in 1963, including King telling the Syracuse audience “the arc of the moral universe is long but it bends toward justice,” before introducing a central theme that would gain worldwide notoriety two years later, dreaming of a day when the vast potential of the American dream could be fulfilled for all its citizens:

Professor Charles Willie, left, with Martin Luther King Jr. during Dr. King’s visit to Syracuse University in the summer of 1965

“This will be the day when all of God’s children, black and white … (Christians), Jews and gentiles, Protestants and Catholics …. will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, ‘Free at last, free at last, thank God almighty: We are free at last,” Dr. King told the audience.

Four summers later, Dr. King returned to campus for a second Summer Sessions Banquet lecture, “The Time is Always Right to Do Right,” inside the old dining hall inside Sims Hall.

Dr. King explored the destructive impact of segregation in northern cities such as Syracuse, lamenting how future generations of Black children would suffer as a result of the harmful ramifications of these policies, combined with the “utterly low quality of education” in the country. [].

These speeches play a vital role in the history of the City of Syracuse and serve as a stark reminder of how long the University has embraced the ideals preached by Dr. King, and how far the country still has to go to achieve King’s ultimate vision, according to Turner.

A Friend of the Underdog

Growing up in the Jim Crow south, Turner considered himself a “friend of the underdog,” oftentimes sticking up for children who were picked on by schoolyard bullies.

“I’ve always been in my natural element when I was striving for justice and equality, even as a child. I’ve always been disturbed when I see someone else getting treated unfairly. That’s an area of passion for me, the concern for equality and for human life, regardless of who the person is. As we see the divides that plague our country, I am inspired by the great commandment, to love your neighbor as yourself. That is the answer to our dividedness, but to be the agent of change requires courage,” Turner says.

Turner vividly remembers an intense sense of patriotism when he and his classmates would sing songs like “America (My Country, ’Tis of Thee),” “God Bless America” and the national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

That love for country dissipated after Turner witnessed acts of overt racism against Black people in Memphis, and further deepened when his family moved to Buffalo, New York, where the racist behavior transitioned from overt to covert hatred and discrimination. He became disillusioned over the realization that the principles this country was founded upon varied greatly based on one’s skin color.

While Turner admits coming to terms with that hypocrisy was difficult, it also sparked a lifelong passion: He dedicated himself to a life of service as a religious leader.

“What has given me a sense of purpose in my ministry is, instead of having my ability to love be depleted in the face of all this contention, anger and hatred in the world, my ministry has increased my ability to love and respect my fellow Americans above the hatred that exists,” Turner says.

Motivating People to Become Agents of Change

Since being elected as the 12th pastor of Bethany Baptist Church on Feb. 19, 2007, Turner has fought to expand his congregation’s impact through membership growth, facility renovations, increased access to transportation services and improved engagement with civic organizations and community organizers.

Turner led the development of a radio ministry, tutoring program and an annual festival that highlights African American heritage. Bethany Baptist Church also partners with the Syracuse City School District, sponsors clothing giveaways, and hosts numerous local and regional events.

Relying on Dr. King’s previous appearances on campus, Turner plans to deliver a message worthy of Dr. King’s vision, using his platform to motivate and inspire the MLK Celebration crowd.

“Hopefully, people will leave this celebration equipped with something that will help them become an agent of change in their communities, to move this world toward a place we want to live in, setting up our children and our descendants for a better world, the one Dr. King dreamed of.”

Tickets for the annual MLK Celebration dinner and program��.

To express the celebration theme of “Civil Rights and the City of Syracuse,” four local artists were selected to show their works in the specially constructed gallery, which will be open to the public on Sunday, Jan. 22, before and during the traditional celebration dinner. The art gallery will open at 4:15 p.m. and the dinner will begin at 5 p.m. For more information, visit .

The exhibition will spotlight artists David R. MacDonald, Jaleel Campbell, Jessica McGhee ’19 and Vanessa Johnson. Curators for the exhibition include Qiana Williams and Cjala Surratt of the Black Artists’ Collective; Ken Harper, associate professor of visual communications and art curator in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications; and Hendricks Chapel staff.

THE ARTISTS

, professor emeritus at Syracuse University, is an acclaimed and celebrated ceramic artist, who has lived in Syracuse for many years. MacDonald joined the faculty of the School of Art and Design at Syracuse University in 1971. During the late 1970s and early 1980s, MacDonald’s work received most of its creative inspiration from his investigation of his African heritage. MacDonald draws much of his inspiration from the myriad examples of surface decoration that manifests itself in the many ethnic groups of sub-Saharan Africa. MacDonald’s work spans the complete spectrum of ceramic forms of a utilitarian nature.

Artwork by Jaleel Campbell

’s passion for creating knows no bounds. Whether it be through illustration work that showcases the often underrepresented, video work that captures the beauty and essence of Black life and culture, or handmade dolls that aim to honor and acknowledge African traditions, there is no limit to his creativity. “I create work that reminds Black people of their worth; even when the world becomes too heavy,” he says.

“Lexical Priming” by Jessica McGhee ’19

, originally from Los Angeles, California, moved to Syracuse in 2008. She earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Syracuse University in 2019 and is currently enrolled in the University’s creative arts therapy M.S. program. Her primary medium is painting, though she works in a variety of media. McGhee works therapeutically and believes strongly in art’s nonverbal ability to communicate, heal and transform the self in ways that impact the overall well-being of its creator. She is currently the arts programming coordinator and an instructor at the University’s La Casita Cultural Center.

“Hye Won Hye” by Vanessa Johnson

is a griot (storyteller) in the West African tradition. She is also a writer, playwright, actor, fiber artist, museum consultant, community activist, historian, educator and teaching artist. Johnson received the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation Creatives Rebuild NY Grant for 2022-24. At Onondaga Historical Association, Johnson used her storytelling talents to tell the history of Onondaga County and she has been teaching in school programs since 2005. Presently, Johnsonteaches at Syracuse University’s Community Folk Art Center and is the artist-in-residence for the Matilda Joslyn Gage Foundation

“We are excited for this year’s participants to celebrate the richness of Syracuse’s culture and beauty…and there’s no juicier way to do that than through art,“ says Harper, who has been on the MLK Event Planning Committee for the past three years. “We hope to expand the gallery next year to include collaborations with additional local artists, the Community Folk Art Center and the Syracuse University Art Museums.”

Tickets for the dinner and program, which will include student and community group performances, presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards and a keynote address from the Rev. Phil Turner,��.

This year’s theme is “Civil Rights and the City of Syracuse.” Tickets for the dinner and program .

Reverend Phil Turner (Photo by Amelia Beamish)

This annual event is the largest of its kind on any college campus. The program seeks to honor the message and mission of Dr. King and is a direct expression of Syracuse University’s commitment to advancing academic excellence at a university welcoming to all.

“As we prepare for our first in-person MLK Celebration since 2020, our planning team is committed to highlighting the people and possibilities of our local community,” says the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “I am honored to welcome Pastor Phil Turner as our featured speaker, as he embodies the spirit and soul of Syracuse. Through his proven leadership and hopeful vision, Pastor Turner is the right person to bring us all together.”

Turner was elected as the 12th pastor of Bethany Baptist Church on Feb. 19, 2007. Following his formal installation in April of 2007, he helped expand congregational impact through membership growth, facility renovations, increased access to transportation services, and improved engagement with civic organizations and community organizers. Turner��led the development of a radio ministry, tutoring program and an annual festival that highlights African American heritage. Bethany Baptist Church also partners with the Syracuse City School District, sponsors clothing giveaways, and hosts numerous local and regional events.

In addition to earning music recording contracts with Warner Bros. and 4th and Broadway, Turner��holds a bachelor of science in history and political science from Columbia College, a master of theological studies from��Northeastern Seminary and a certificate in church management from Villanova University.

“When Dr. King spoke, his words were so piercing because they came from truth, his inner light and compassion,” says Rev. Turner. “We must accept the challenge to make everyone’s lives better. Leaders need to have a healthy appetite for change. They can’t be afraid.”

Our 2023 program marks the 38th year for the MLK Celebration, which will include an address from Turner, student and community group performances, a presentation of this year’s , and recognition of the 2022 and 2021 Unsung Hero Awardees previously honored through online celebrations.

New this year is an art gallery featuring works from local Black artists, ��opening at 4:15 p.m. The traditional dinner—pulled BBQ pork, collard greens, sweet potato pie and more—will open at 5 p.m. Halal/Kosher, gluten-free and vegetarian options will be available. Dinner will be held near the JMA Dome’s west end zone, entry at Gate A. The main program with Rev. Turner and performers will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the east side. For program-only attendees, doors open at 6 p.m.

Ticket purchase options are as follows:

• Syracuse University staff, faculty, and the general public (dinner and program): $30
• Students (dinner and program): $15
• Main program only: FREE

Registration is required for all ticket purchase options.

All dinner tickets will be assigned a table number at the time of purchase, which will be included in the mobile tickets. Guests interested in sitting with friends are recommended to purchase tickets together to ensure the same table assignment.

Guests may order up to 10 dinner and program tickets online. To purchase one full table (10 seats), select 10 total tickets and proceed to checkout. To purchase more than one table or more than 10 individual tickets, or if experiencing difficulties, please call the JMA Dome Box Office at 1.888.DOME.TIX (315.443.2121), option four.

All dinner guests will be seated in the 100 level of the stands for the program following dinner. All guests attending the program only will be seated in the 200 level. Seating is general admission in those areas for the program.

Buy tickets online at��, in person at the Dome Box Office inside Gate B at 900 Irving Ave. (Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) or by phone (888.DOME.TIX or 315.443.2121, option four). Tickets will be mobile this year and uploaded directly to your MyCuse account to manage upon purchase. View the for more information.

Free parking is available in the Irving Avenue Garage and in lots west of the JMA Dome. Visit the University’s ��for maps and directions. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be available for the event. Accessible seating is provided on the concourse level of the JMA Dome.

For more information about the MLK Celebration or to request accommodations, contact Hendricks Chapel at��chapel@syr.edu��or 315.443.2901. Learn more about this and other Hendricks Chapel events by visiting .

The celebration seeks to honor the life and legacy of individuals who exemplify the spirit, life and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. yet have not received widespread recognition or been previously honored for their efforts. These individuals represent a direct expression of Syracuse University’s commitment to fostering and supporting a university welcoming to all.

If you know an individual who should be honored and celebrated, please consider nominating them for our 2023 celebration.

included the Institute of Technology at Syracuse Central Varsity Football Team, Syracuse community members, and Syracuse University faculty, students and staff.

Nominations may be made in any of the following categories:

• youth/teen from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• adult from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• currently enrolled student at Syracuse University or SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF)
• faculty or staff from Syracuse University or SUNY ESF

The Unsung Hero Award nominations are due by Wednesday, Dec.��14, 2022, at 11:59 p.m. Nomination forms can be found .

The 2023��Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration will take place on Jan.��22, 2023, in the JMA Wireless Dome. Further information will be announced in the coming weeks at��.

With questions regarding the Unsung Hero Awards, please contact Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu.

David Barbier ’23, co-chair of the celebration, interviews Martin Luther King III from the stage in Hendricks Chapel.

Traditionally held in the stadium on campus each January, this year’s celebration was held virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s theme was “We are Part of the Dream.” Iris St. Meran, reporter with NewsChannel 9, served as master of ceremonies. The featured speaker was Martin Luther King III, civil rights activist, global humanitarian, political leader and eldest son of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King.

A choir consisting of members of the greater Syracuse community and the University’s Black Celestial Choral Ensemble (BCCE) opened the event with a rousing rendition of “When the Saints Go Marching In.”

David Barbier Jr. ’23, co-chair of the celebration with Hendricks Chapel Dean Brian Konkol, offered welcoming remarks from 119 Euclid Avenue, the University’s recently reimagined space to celebrate the longstanding history, traditions and contributions of the Black community on the Syracuse University campus and beyond.

The 2022 MLK Community Choir and Black Celestial Choral Ensemble

“The creation of 119 Euclid is one example of embracing the theme for today, which is ‘We are Part of the Dream,’” said Barbier. “In choosing the theme for this particular year, the planning team sought to honor the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by reflecting not only on his dream from years ago, but how we must be a part of it in the here and now, and in the years to come on campus and far beyond.”

Konkol stood before the University’s iconic Martin Luther King Jr. quilt, “The Spirit of the Beloved Community,” one of the familiar elements of the celebration each year, to offer his welcoming remarks and an invocation. The quilt was imagined by a former student in 1991 and completed by the Hendricks Chapel Quiltmakers in January 1993.

“As this quilt was constructed—stitch by stitch, patch by patch and block by block—the assembly of those who made it happen were also constructed,” said Konkol. “Hour by hour, day by day, week by week, into the embodiment of a beloved community.” Today we honor those responsible for this quilt, and in doing so we honor all those who seek to be a part of Dr. King’s dream for a beloved community. Stitch by stitch, patch by patch, block by block.”

“In a world that is both broken and beautiful, and a time that is both woeful and wonderful, there continues to be a dream among us. A dream to become a beloved community. We are indeed a part of the dream, so may we be so bold and so humble to learn from our past and to believe in the abundant goodness of our present. And to embrace the faith that indeed all things are possible,” Konkol said.

Chancellor Kent Syverud, in his remarks, paid tribute to Dr. King, Charles Vert Willie G’57, H’92 and Walter Broadnax G’75. Willie, a friend of Dr. King’s from Morehouse College, was Syracuse University’s first tenured Black faculty member and a giant in the field of education and civil rights. Dr. King visited Syracuse University in 1961 and 1965 at Willie’s invitation. Willie passed away on Jan. 11 at the age of 94. Broadnax, a student of Willie, is Distinguished Professor Emeritus of public administration and international affairs in the Maxwell School and a member of the University’s Board of Trustees.

“At Syracuse University we recognize that academic excellence cannot exist without a determined commitment to the principle that all are created equal. Syracuse University must be a place that is welcoming to all. We study social movements, history, political science and literature to learn lessons from the past. We have difficult conversations, but we do so with respect and recognition of the dignity of others,” Chancellor Syverud said. “Let’s take our inspiration from Dr. King and Dr. Willie and Dr. Broadnax. Let’s persevere through setbacks. Let’s commit ourselves to excellence that is rooted in equality. Let’s make Syracuse University an example of the transforming power of higher education.”

Iris St. Meran, reporter at NewsChannel 9 and master of ceremonies for Sunday’s event

The MLK Unsung Hero Award was bestowed on eight recipients throughout the evening. They include Nathena Murray ’22 and Chenhui “Peipei” Liu ’23 (Syracuse University students); David Knapp, assistant professor of music education in the Setnor School of Music in the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) and School of Education, and Joanna Spitzner ’92, associate professor of studio arts in the School of Art in VPA (Syracuse University faculty); Vince Cobb Sr., media technology consultant and engineer in the Newhouse School (Syracuse University staff); the Institute of Technology at Syracuse Central varsity football team (community youth); and Ocesa Keaton ��’15 and Beverly Oliver (community members).

In addition to the combined community and BCCE choir, other performers throughout the evening included the Royalty Step Team from the Southside Academy Charter School and Eesanajja Grayson, founder of Badakan Afrique Drum and Dance.

The celebration culminated with conversation with Martin Luther King III, who was interviewed by event co-chair Barbier. As the eldest son of the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, King serves as an ambassador of his parents’ legacy of nonviolent social change.

King spoke about the importance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which was signed into law as a federal holiday by President Ronald Reagan in 1983 and was celebrated as an official holiday for the first time in 1986. “On Jan. 15, 1969, less than a year after Dad was killed, my mother and a team of people in Atlanta and some around the country were already beginning the process of observing what would later become a King holiday,” King said. “In our minds it was a day where we would be engaged in doing work.” His mother, Coretta Scott King, lobbied every U.S. senator and many congresspersons to make the holiday a reality. Over the years, the King holiday has evolved to include activities including nonviolence and voting rights training and volunteer activities. King noted that although his father did most of his work in the United States, there are more than 120 countries around the world that observe the King holiday.

“I know from experience that being named after your father carries with it a special responsibility,” Barbier told King. “In being named after both your father and your grandfather, when has it felt like a blessing and when has it felt like a burden?”

“As early as I can remember, I have always felt carrying this name was a blessing and I never focused on the burden of being who I was,” King said. His mother told him that he did not have to follow in his father’s footsteps. “Just be your best self and we will support you in all the ways that we can.” He did follow in his father’s footsteps in many ways, attending Morehouse College and engaging in civil and human rights. Today, he, his wife and daughter lead the Drum Major Institute, advancing Dr. King’s vision of a world free of racism, poverty and violence by embracing the values of peace, justice and equity.

“Today we are at one of the worst points in the history of our country. We as a nation are far, far too divided. Dad used to teach us that we can learn how to live together without destroying person or property. We can disagree without being disagreeable. … Dad would say we must learn nonviolence or we will face non-existence,” King said. “I am going to embrace the concept that we as a human species can and must do better and we must find ways to engage without destroying each other.”

Barbier asked King what he recalled from April 4, 1968, the day his father was assassinated in Memphis. King and his siblings learned their father had been shot from a news bulletin on television. Four days later, he and two of their siblings accompanied their mother to Memphis, where she led a march in her husband’s place. The next day, on April 9, 1968, they said goodbye to their husband and father surrounded by politicians, entertainers and the Atlanta community.

Barbier asked King how he perceives colleges and universities as agents of change.

“Dad had a quote that said that education without character is dangerous,” King said. “I think that today our institutions are constantly preparing young people for their destinies. … Education gives you the theory, but you sometimes have to be engaged in pragmatic practical experiences to truly understand.” King spoke of the student engagement that took place in the 1960s that ultimately brought about change. Change can also come through tragedies, such as the murder of George Floyd that sparked protests in all 50 states and around the world and brought many of the relics of the Confederacy down. King also noted that with progress comes setbacks. His father delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech in Washington, D.C., on Aug. 28, 1963. Just over two weeks later, on Sept. 15, four young African American girls were killed when the 16th��Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, was bombed.

“We have to find and look for the best in America and bring that together,” King said. “We have to learn how to disagree without being disagreeable so we don’t run the risk of destroying our nation.”

King also spoke about his mother, Coretta Scott King, who was a civil rights leader, a fierce advocate for her husband’s legacy and, above all, a mother to her four children. “She was a coalition builder,” King said. “If it was not for Mother, I don’t know how far Dad’s legacy would have gone.”

In closing, King said a lot of work must be done to create the beloved community that his father and mother envisioned. “I want everybody at Syracuse to fulfill and achieve whatever they want to achieve,” he said. “I hope that you would look to Martin Luther King Jr. for a philosophy that helped to transform our nation and the world, so that our nation and world becomes better.”

Iris St. Meran

“Iris St. Meran is an excellent journalist, dedicated community member and beloved thought leader,” says the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “As we seek to honor the life and legacy of a leader who brought hope and healing to our world, the Celebration Planning Committee believed Iris was the right person for this important time, and we were delighted when she accepted our invitation to participate.”

The featured speaker at this year’s celebration is Martin Luther King III, a civil rights activist, global humanitarian, political leader and eldest son of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. King will speak to his father’s legacy under the theme, “We Are Part of the Dream.” The celebration is the largest of its kind on a college campus and features performances, dinner and the presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards.

Registration for the event is free and open to all on Syracuse University’s��.

About Iris St. Meran

Iris St. Meran has created a special connection with Central New York and Syracuse as a television��news��reporter at NewsChannel 9 and, previously, as��anchor at Spectrum News. St. Meran pursued her degree in journalism at Emerson College in in her hometown of Boston, Massachusetts.

She started her career as a desk assistant and web producer at New England Cable News. St. Meran quickly immersed herself in the local community after moving to Upstate New York in 2008.

Throughout her career, St. Meran has covered a number of impactful, life-changing stories. She earned a first-place award from the New York Associated Press for her series “Addicted: Heroin’s Hold.” That series is an example of St. Meran’s passion for telling stories that make a difference in the lives of her viewers. In another multipart series, “Troubled Water: Crisis in Flint,” St. Meran found inspiration in that Michigan community’s ability to come together in the midst of crisis.

St. Meran serves on the boards of the Gifford Foundation and the YMCA of Central New York.��She also co-hosts a podcast called “The Ladies’ Room,” which features women making an impact in their communities. St. Meran loves animals and has two rescue dogs. She has run the Utica Boilermaker 5K. She also enjoys the area’s vibrant history.��She has spent her time here meeting the people, participating in the activities and exploring the places so special to Central New York.

The Unsung Hero Award is given to community members, students, faculty and staff who have made positive impacts on the lives of others but are not widely recognized for their contributions. The awards were created to honor Dr. King’s vision of creating positive change in a troubled world.

The award winners will be recognized at the 37th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. The event will be held online on Sunday, Jan. 30, at 7 p.m. featuring keynote speaker Martin Luther King III. Registration for the celebration is open to all and available on the .

This year’s Unsung Hero recipients are:

Nathena Murray ’22 (Syracuse University Student)

Nathena Murray, a senior medicinal chemistry and neuroscience major in the College of Arts and Sciences, is a heavily engaged member of the Syracuse community both on and off campus.

Nathena Murray ’22

Murray has deeply impacted and inspired her peers through her involvement in various organizations on campus. She had made a lasting impact through her involvement with the Juvenile Urban Multicultural Program, known as J.U.M.P. Nation, where she and her collaborators work to decrease the high school dropout rate while increasing the enrollment into institutions such as Syracuse University. Murray also serves as a mentor for the WellsLink Leadership Program, where she oversees approximately five students and ensures that they are succeeding both academically and socially. Murray is a 2021-22 Remembrance Scholar, one of the highest honors bestowed upon students by Syracuse University.

“As a strong woman of color on campus, Nathena has not only changed students’ lives, but she has also inspired others to find their own voice and call to action by embracing their own identities and lived experiences,” says friend Jazmine Richardson ’22.

In addition to her work on campus, Murray is also actively involved in the greater Syracuse community. She volunteers weekly at the Rahma Health Clinic, which provides free healthcare to uninsured, under-insured and underserved adults within the South Side community. The clinic seeks ways to address and stem the disproportionate number of people who are admitted to hospitals suffering from preventable illnesses. She has served patients at Crouse Hospital, continues to serve several families with the CNY Eastern Farm Workers Association as part of their benefit advocacy team, and as a Remembrance Scholar has helped coordinate a clothing drive across campus for newly resettled Afghan refugees in Syracuse. Murray is a multifaceted leader within the community and has provided hope through her work in numerous organizations on campus and in the Syracuse community.

Peipei Liu ’23 (Syracuse University Student)

Chenhui “Peipei” Liu, a junior television, radio and film student in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, works to lift up and connect her fellow international students on campus.

Peipei Liu ’23

Liu embodies her motto, “Living to make this world a better place.” She is currently an editor at WeMedia Lab, a Chinese new media team that creates content to promote multicultural communication and build connections between international students and Syracuse University. Her commitment to this work began her freshman year, when she lived in Day Hall and was directly impacted by racist incidents that occurred. She worked with her resident advisors to create a campaign of positivity called #SUnite. Along with other residents, Liu wrote positive phrases, such as “Spread Love,” on stickers and posted them throughout the building. Later that year, Liu continued to advocate for inclusion and unity through an award-winning screenplay titled “Sun-Kissed Orange.” The play highlighted how those who are different from each other can still relate to one another.

Liu uses her passion for film, storytelling and communication in a wide variety of student organizations, allowing her to build bridges throughout campus. She is the cinemas assistant for University Union; a staff writer at The OutCrowd magazine, the University’s only student-run LGBTQIA+ publication; the interchapter chair for the Delta Kappa Alpha cinematic fraternity, where she brings her perspectives as an international student to promote diversity and inclusivity; and a mentor in the Orange Success Mentoring Program, where she helps her mentees to adjust to life on campus. Liu has also served as a peer educator at the Barnes Center at the Arch, where she was able to help international students, especially Chinese students, who face a language barrier in accessing support services.

In addition to her extensive involvement on campus, Liu also creates positive changes around the globe. In the first months of 2020, when her hometown of Wuhan, China, suffered from an extreme shortage of medical supplies, she assisted the WeMedia Lab staff members who organized the fundraising project “A Hand for Wuhan.” The initiative supported the purchase and delivery of personal protective equipment to hospitals in Wuhan. When Liu later experienced discrimination because of her Wuhanese identity, she advocated for herself and her Asian and Chinese peers by creating a “Fight Virus, Not Us” campaign, and she created a music video, titled “Embrace You,” with friends to spread love and support during this difficult time. She also created an Instagram account named “The Wuhan You Didn’t Know” as part of this advocacy work.

“Every time I watch this music video, it is so encouraging and powerful that my heart is filled with tears and warmth. I admire her courage to go out and speak for herself, and I see her social responsibility shine through this,” says friend Ze Zeng ’22. “As her close friend, I know Peipei indeed embodies Dr. King’s legacy.”

David Knapp and Joanna Spitzner ’92 (Syracuse University Faculty)

David Knapp, assistant professor of music education in the Setnor School of Music and School of Education, and Joanna Spitzner, associate professor of studio arts in the School of Art, have gone above and beyond in their support of The SENSES Project.

David Knapp

SENSES, which stands for “Studying an Environment that Nurtures Self Exploration in Students,” is a CUSE Grant funded project that seeks to increase sense of belonging by teaching sound recording to marginalized students in the Arthur O. Eve Higher Education Program (HEOP) and TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) programs. The project provides these students the equipment, instruction and space for self-exploration and expression through music and podcasting.

Both Professors Spitzner and Knapp volunteer their time and energy because they believe in trying a new and creative way to increase marginalized students’ sense of belonging.

Knapp was instrumental in setting up the Audio Lab and provided guidance on layout, hardware and software, as well as research design and methodology. He has also connected other key volunteers and supporters to the program. Willing to help in any way he can, Knapp also came in throughout the summer to help unpack boxes, move furniture and set up equipment.

Joanna Spitzner

Spitzner is the primary faculty partner for the podcasting program and has consulted on equipment, software and programming ideas. In summer 2021, she designed and implemented the first summer podcasting program and trained students and staff on how to use podcasting equipment and edit recordings. Spitzner also created The SENSES Project’s website, logo and other essential materials.

“Our team believes that Professors Spitzner and Knapp personify the spirit of the Unsung Hero Award, which recognizes members of the campus community who demonstrate selfless dedication to bring about positive change,” says Amy Messersmith, associate director for SSS. “A major goal of The SENSES Project is to create a ‘beloved community’ and facilitate campus unification by providing a solution-focused diversity and inclusion intervention that has the potential to improve the campus climate as a whole. Due to Professor Knapp and Professor Spitzner’s guidance and dedication, we are now moving towards this vision.”

Vince Cobb Sr. (Syracuse University Staff)

Vince Cobb Sr., media technology consultant and engineer at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, plays a vital role in the lives of Black students at Newhouse and in the Syracuse community—particularly on the South Side.

Vince Cobb Sr.

At Newhouse, Cobb oversees a vital part of the school called “the Cage,” where all of the multimedia equipment is stored. This space that has tripled in the last decade, and Cobb now manages a team of more than 30 student workers who track the school’s cameras, audio equipment, tripods and lights. He is also responsible for research and development of new and emerging technologies and plays an important role in keeping Newhouse students current with industry standards in their production courses. This is also where he trains classes of students as they learn to become multimedia storytellers. Cobb’s connection to the Orange family runs deep, too—three of his four children graduated from Syracuse University.

Cobb has a reputation for being student-focused and for creating a welcoming, supportive and safe space for all students, and for Black students in particular. He acts as a mentor, creates listening sessions to ensure they are seen and heard, and helps them secure jobs. Cobb also serves on the school’s Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Committee, advising on schoolwide policies and programs, as well as creating some of his own over the years. Liz Curinga, a computer consultant at Newhouse, says he has helped create dialogue between faculty, staff and students that increased mutual understanding. “Vince Cobb makes it his mission to ensure students feel a sense of community here on campus,” she says.

Cobb’s understanding of engineering, skill at new media technology and care for his community extend beyond the doors of Newhouse. For example, he has worked with the Genesis Health Project based within the University since 2005, which focuses on the health and wellness of the African American and minority communities. He created the Youth Advocacy Mentoring Program, which supports dozens of inner-city students in the areas of math and science through tutoring and campus visits to Syracuse University to reinforce the importance of education. Cobb also volunteers as a youth basketball coach for the Amateur Athletic Union.

Using his professional expertise in recording technology, Cobb has empowered marginalized students and community members to make their voices heard. In the community, he created the Inner-City Media and News Team, which paired Newhouse students of color with junior-high and high-school students as they wrote scripts, reported the news and conducted production and editing workshops using a full production facility that he built himself and set up at his local church. At the church, Greater Evangelical Church of God in Christ, he serves as the media and technology director and deacon. He has trained multiple generations to use camera technology, and also broadcasts services to a broader audience. On campus, he has recently become involved in The SENSES Project, which seeks to increase sense of belonging by teaching sound recording to marginalized students.

During a recent professional-in-residency program at Newhouse, Cobb went above and beyond his job description to serve the community. Media industry leader Natasha Alford, a Syracuse local, remembered Cobb from her time at Nottingham High School and requested his involvement by name. Cobb was instrumental in setting up visits to three local high schools; an op-ed writing workshop at the South Side Innovation Center, which attracted more than a dozen community leaders; and a talk Alford gave at Cobb’s church, which he broadcast on social media.

“A father of four, Vince is a man fueled by faith, driven by a mission to serve, uplift and support his community, and a champion of the freedom afforded by education,” says Professor Melissa Chessher, interim associate dean for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility at Newhouse.

Institute of Technology at Syracuse Central (ITC) Varsity Football Team (Community Youth)

A group of 17 varsity football players from the Institute of Technology at Syracuse Central (ITC), a Syracuse City School District high school, embodies the essence of Dr. King as its members have the distinct courage to create positive change in a troubled world.

Institute of Technology at Syracuse Central (ITC) Varsity Football Team

After a heartbreaking football season, these young men decided to turn their pain into purpose. They began the 2021 season 0-3, and then won five straight games and made a historic run as the first football team in school history to win a playoff game. They were well disciplined, coached and nurtured by the best every week. But just when they were at their highest point, they suffered their most difficult loss, and their season ended before they could make it to the championships.

While that could have been the end of their time as a team, defensive all-star Isaiah A. Goodrich, one of the team’s leaders on and off the field, decided to take a chance and invite his teammates to volunteer with him at his church’s Thanksgiving Turkey Giveaway. He thought it would be an opportunity for them to bond, be together again and “show the community that we are more than just athletes, we are scholars, and we truly care about what happens to the kids and families in our community,” he says. Sixteen players, along with Head Coach Cedric Stevens, responded to his invitation, and they all arrived in their jerseys ready to engage with and serve the very community in which they were born and raised. They helped distribute more than 400 meals that day and were very well received by the other volunteers, so much so that they were asked to come back again.

The team members who volunteered are Carlos Almeyda, Aydan Archie, Jordan I. Crouch, Miguel Cruz, Isaiah A. Goodrich, Shiloh W. Mantock, Gregory O’Selmo, Prince E. Perry, David Rodriguez, Abraham B. Saywon, Tre’Juer M. Sledge, Tyshawn Taylor, Nathaniel Teska-Prince, Adrian J. Thornton, Daron Torrence, Ashton Williams and Avery Williams.

Many of these young men also served at the Annual Bike Giveaway Setup in December. Taylor, the team’s lead all-star wide receiver, vowed to continue serving forever. “I have never been asked to do something like this before. It made me feel so good helping other people and being with my teammates. I hope we can keep doing it next year, our last year together,” he says.

Taylor’s wish came true. In just a few short months, members of the team worked together to create a lasting legacy and impact among those who look to them as role models. Goodrich once again reached out and pulled some of his teammates together to develop and implement the “Athletes for Community Engagement” (ACE) program in an effort to inspire and celebrate the academic accomplishments of other young athletes in the City of Syracuse, and to encourage them to be actively engaged in their communities. As part of this program, they launched Kicks for Kings, which raised close to $1,000 in one week to buy brand-new sneakers, personalized sweatshirts and other items for five middle-school athletes who made significant progress on their report cards last marking period, and who may demonstrate a need.

“Young people have always led societal change, and I believe that these young men, this next generation, will demand and create the necessary change we need in this city as they lead by example. Dr. King would be ever so proud. As an educator and African American woman, this gives me real hope for the future,” says Octavia Wilcox, retired Syracuse City School District principal and administrator.

Ocesa Keaton ��’15 (Community Member)

Ocesa Keaton is a licensed social worker who uses her degree and tireless effort to engage and empower the citizens of Syracuse.

Ocesa Keaton G’15

Coincidentally, Keaton not only shares the same birthday as Dr. King, but also his belief that one should “make a career of humanity” and “commit to the noble struggle of equal rights.” She is a vocal community member that advocates for equal access for Syracuse’s most marginalized community members. Her approach is centered on the belief that poverty is not a morality issue, but a broken systems issue. Leading the efforts of the anti-poverty initiative Greater Syracuse H.O.P.E., Keaton helped create 49 new jobs in neighborhoods with the highest rates of concentrated poverty. Additionally, she collaborated with CenterState CEO and the City of Syracuse to help create the “Syracuse Build: Pathways to Apprenticeship” initiative, which is a paid training program that prepares minorities, women and veterans for a career in skilled trades where they are traditionally an underrepresented group.

During the initial days of the pandemic, Keaton did not let having lupus prevent her from helping her community, and constantly found ways to be of service despite her condition.�� She worked alongside several community agencies to coordinate food giveaways and neighborhood check-ins. She used the information gathered from the neighborhood check-ins to create the COVID-19 Experience Survey, which helped pinpoint the immediate needs of distressed Syracuse neighborhoods during the early days of the pandemic.

Keaton’s choice in volunteer projects also reflects her belief in building strong communities. She is a member of the Junior League Community Collaboration Committee. She also helped create a new supply closet for the Samaritan Center and participated in STEM Day for Dr. King Elementary. Additionally, she is a member of the Soulful Saturday Book Club that launched a free book library at Café Sankofa, featuring black women authors. Keaton believes that literacy is key to building self-sufficient and stable communities. She has been involved in efforts to inform community members of their voting rights, rights as workers, and disability advocacy. Keaton is as equally passionate about her family as she is about the community. She is a godmother to her two younger cousins and attends parent-teacher conferences, basketball games and any activities they participate in.

“Ocesa inspires hope in myself and others because she will defend Syracuse against anyone who speaks negatively over the future of this city,” says relative Helen Kinsey. “Ocesa has taken the negative statistics and attitude about the community and used them as fuel to show our youth and her peers what is possible. I could not be prouder of my niece’s work and dedication to the community.”

Beverly Oliver (Community Member)

Beverly Oliver has been serving the Onondaga County community for over 35 years, meeting one of the most critical needs in our society: high quality early child care and afterschool programming.

Beverly Oliver

Oliver is the founder and operator of the After School and Early Learning Program (LASP) located at C. Grant Grimshaw Elementary in LaFayette. The rural town of LaFayette and the Onondaga Nation include a Title I school system that has a high percentage of children from low-income families. Across the country, there are disparities in what groups have access to quality early childhood programming. According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children, early childhood is a uniquely vulnerable and valuable time in the human life cycle. Because of Oliver, children and families in LaFayette and the Onondaga Nation have had accessible programming that lays the foundation of healthy development, creating promising trajectories for all later learning and development.

LASP began as a small program that utilized spaces in community centers and churches. Today, Oliver operates a full, wrap-around program that offers preschool programming, afterschool and summer programming with a focus on inclusion, equity, kindness and compassion.

High quality childcare services are scarce, and that has only worsened during the pandemic. Extraordinarily, Oliver made a courageous decision to remain open over the past two years, where she continued to provide critical services to children and families in Onondaga County year round. In a time where she had planned to retire, Oliver has continued to serve, taking on additional shifts to make sure all programs are covered. She also organized a professional development opportunity for the LaFayette Central School District where participants sharpen skills in recognizing stress in young children and learn supportive strategies to address the increased mental health needs of children that have been magnified by COVID-19.

Oliver has also worked with the children under her care to make sure their voices are heard. In the spirit of listening to and learning from others, she organized a group of children to attend the After School Advocacy Day in Albany, New York, charting a course of action. Oliver lifted the voices of the children, creating an opportunity for them to develop self-advocacy skills and express their needs in the state capital. As a result, the LaFayette Central School District received a grant to support five years of after school programming.

Oliver’s commitments extend far beyond LASP. She is involved in numerous community organizations and all of the LaFayette School District schools. “Oliver’s strong connection to the deep understandings shared and her participation in all community activities is an additional testament to her devotion to honoring the community,” says Simone Gonyea, principal of the Onondaga Nation School.

Oliver has also worked closely with Citizens United Revitalizing Neighborhoods and Light a Candle for Literacy in Syracuse, providing children positive developmental experiences through pen pal programs, recreational camping and art activities. Children from both Syracuse and LaFayette came together to further understandings of how we all live together while valuing diverse living environments.

“Mrs. Oliver and her work reminds us that we all have a responsibility to our nation’s children,” says Colleen Cameron, professor of practice in human development and family science in the David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics and a volunteer with LASP. “The courage to create positive change in the world requires one to be altruistic, and a kinder and more compassionate society exists because of Mrs. Oliver.”

Charles Vert Willie

The legacy of Syracuse University alumnus Charles Vert Willie G’57, H’92 will forever be tied to that of his friend Martin Luther King Jr., making Willie’s passing a week before MLK Day 2022 especially poignant. Willie, who died on Jan. 11 at the age of 94, will be remembered in his own right as a champion for inclusion, equity and social justice.

Twenty years ago, Willie delivered some on the occasion of MLK Day 2002 at Harvard University: “By idolizing those whom we honor, we fail to realize that we could go and do likewise. As I have said on many occasions, honoring Martin Luther King Jr. would be dishonorable if we remember the man and forget his mission. For those among us who believe in him, his work now must become our own.”

Willie, indeed, made the work of King his own, as a student, teacher and administrator at Syracuse University for nearly 25 years. He arrived on campus as a teaching assistant in 1950, joined the faculty two years later as an instructor and earned his doctorate in 1957 from the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs. A decade later, he was appointed chair of the Sociology Department, becoming the first Black man appointed to an academic administration position at the University. He was also named vice president for student affairs in 1972.

Willie once described Syracuse University as a place “where I made thousands of friends and learned hundreds of lessons about reform and rebellion, redemption and reconciliation.” He engaged with students during campus protests, always seeking justice through understanding and mutual respect.

Charles V. Willie, at left, was awarded the Chancellor’s Citation Lifetime Achievement Award by Chancellor Kent Syverud during the One University Awards Ceremony in 2017

Willie brought to academia and administrative work a perspective grounded in history and personal experience as a child of segregation. He detailed what that meant to him in 1989 for the Concord, Massachusetts, Oral History Project, recalling his boyhood in Dallas, Texas: “I also grew up during the period when blacks had to sit at the back of the bus and at the back of the streetcar. It was always humiliating to me to pay one’s fare and then have to push through a crowded streetcar all the way to the back of it, but these were the experiences that one grew up with…. High office and prestige is no basis for knuckling under to injustice, and that’s been a tenet of my life over the years. So, wherever I find injustice, I am sorry, I have to oppose it.”

Chancellor Kent Syverud, who presented Willie with the 2017 Chancellor’s Citation Lifetime Achievement Award, noted his dedication to social justice. During the presentation, Chancellor Syverud said, “Through teaching, research and public service, Dr. Willie built a powerful legacy of advancing access and opportunity for all. Educator and social activist, he served as a court-appointed master, expert witness and consultant in many school desegregation cases. Throughout his career, he leveraged the power of social research to advance the cause of justice.”

Martin Luther King Jr., right, and Professor Charles Willie during King’s 1965 visit to the Syracuse University campus.

During his tenure at Syracuse University, Willie twice hosted his friend Martin Luther King Jr. on visits to campus, in 1961 and 1965. Willie and King had been classmates at Morehouse College, where Willie earned a B.A. in 1948. Years later, Willie once again stood by King’s side when introducing him to a Syracuse audience: “We have great affection for you in this city,” Willie told his friend. “We honor you because you have visited us and because of your achievement and because of your suffering.”

In 1974, Willie left Syracuse to accept a tenured position as professor of education and urban studies at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education. His areas of research included desegregation, higher education, public health, race relations, urban community problems and family life. He published more than 100 articles and 35 books. Even after formally retiring from Harvard in 1999, Willie continued to teach part-time for another decade.

In 1992, Willie was awarded an honorary degree by Syracuse University. And, in 2000, he received the George Arents Pioneer Medal, Syracuse University’s highest alumni honor, presented to alumni who have made outstanding contributions to their chosen fields.

His is a tribute to his life and legacy: “He strove to bring the ideals of justice, equity, empathy, and reconciliation to every conflict he faced. He uncovered the best in everyone, understanding that no matter how intransigent the conflict, resolution required neither the annihilation nor the humiliation of opposing sides. Following those principles allowed Willie to build strong professional and personal bonds; he leaves behind a broad and diverse community of those who were touched by his grace.”

Charles and Mary Sue Willie and their daughter, Sarah Susannah Willie-LeBreton

Willie is survived by his wife of 59 years Mary Sue (Conklin) Willie; daughter Sarah Willie-LeBreton (Jonathan LeBreton) of Media, Pennsylvania; son Martin Willie (Jayme) of Denver, Colorado; son James Willie (Susan) of Takoma Park, Maryland; grandchildren Jeremy-Nathaniel Willie LeBreton, Susannah James Willie and Addison Jean Willie. Continuing Willie’s legacy with Maxwell, his son James and daughter-in-law Susan are former and current Maxwell Advisory Board members, respectively.

Martin Luther King III

Martin Luther King III, a civil rights activist, global humanitarian, political leader and eldest son of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., will serve as featured speaker for the 37th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, which will take place virtually on Sunday, Jan. 30.

Registration for the event is free and open to all on Syracuse University’s .

This annual event at Syracuse University is the largest of its kind on a college campus. The program seeks to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King, and is intended to be a direct expression of Syracuse University’s commitment to advancing academic excellence in a University welcoming to all.

This year’s theme is “We Are Part of the Dream.”

About the Speaker

As the eldest son of the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King III serves as an ambassador of his parents’ legacy of nonviolent social change.

A graduate of his father’s alma mater, Morehouse College, King has promoted peace, led demonstrations and pushed for effective legislation through innovative strategies and inspiring action to drive institutional, political and social movements.

King has served as elected member of the Board of Commissioners for Fulton County, Georgia, elected president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and president and CEO of the Atlanta-based King Center.

As founder and president of Realizing the Dream Inc., King took his father’s message to a global audience, spearheading nonviolence training in Bosnia and Herzegovina, India, Israel, Palestine, Kenya, Sri Lanka and the United States. He also co-founded Bounce TV, the first independently owned and operated TV network featuring African Americans.

“We are overjoyed to welcome Martin Luther King III as our featured speaker,” says the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “As we seek to honor the life and legacy of a leader who brought hope and healing to our world, the opportunity to feature Martin Luther King III is an exciting and historic opportunity, and his presence and participation will surely have a longstanding and powerful impact for our campus community.”

About the Celebration

This year marks the 37th year for the MLK Celebration, which will include King’s address, campus community performances and presentation of this year’s Unsung Hero Awards. Due to COVID-19 and a commitment to health and safety, the 2022 MLK Celebration will be held fully online on Sunday, Jan. 30, beginning at 7 p.m. ET.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and captioning will be available for the event.

For more information about the event or to request accommodations, please contact Hendricks Chapel at��chapel@syr.edu or 315.443.2901.

The Unsung Hero Award nominations are due on Wednesday, Dec. 15, at 11:59 p.m. Nomination forms can be found at .

The annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration seeks to honor the life and legacy of a leader who brought hope and healing to our world, and is a direct expression of Syracuse University’s commitment to fostering and supporting an inclusive, accessible campus community of opportunity for a richly diverse student body.

The Unsung Hero Awards celebrate individuals who exemplify the spirit, life and teachings of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. yet have not received widespread recognition or been previously honored for their efforts.

Nominations may be made in any of the following categories:

• youth/teen from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• adult from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• currently enrolled student at Syracuse University or SUNY ESF
• faculty or staff from Syracuse University or SUNY ESF

The 2022 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration will take place on Jan. 23, 2022, in the stadium. Further information will be announced in the coming weeks at .

For questions regarding the Unsung Hero Awards, please contact Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu.

“Devon Patton is not only a gifted and respected public figure but also a beloved graduate of Syracuse University,” says the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel and co-chair of the organizing committee. “As we prepare for a memorable celebration in the midst of these challenging times, we are elated that he accepted our invitation to participate. His presence will contribute toward a meaningful celebration.”

Devon Patton ’94

Patton embraces the role of emcee and appreciates the event’s meaning and timeliness. “What an amazing coincidence that we are celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King at a time when we need more unity and non-violent voices,” says Patton. “Dr. King was all about people coming together in a non-violent way and not just with people who look like each other or think like each other.”

Registration for the 36th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration is now open and free to all at .

Ruby Bridges, one of the first African American students to attend an all-white elementary school in the South, will serve as the keynote speaker. Bridges will reflect on Dr. King’s work, as well as the impact of education in sparking and sustaining social change. Additionally, the event includes student and community performances, as well as the presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards.

Patton graduated from Syracuse University in 1994 with a bachelor’s degree in speech communication, now communication and rhetorical studies, in the College of Visual and Performing Arts. During his four years at the University, he was a successful athlete with a track and field scholarship. Patton was named Big East Champion in the 400-meter hurdles and qualified for the Olympic trials during his athletic career at the University.

Patton spent the beginning of his professional career working as a programming assistant at WCAU, a NBC station in Philadelphia. He later continued his career working as a photojournalist in West Virginia and North Carolina. His first on-air opportunity was in North Carolina, and he later served in�� reporter and anchor roles in Kentucky, Nebraska and Louisiana. Even though Patton has worked all over the country, he feels strongly connected to the Central New York community. He currently lives with his wife and children in Jamesville, New York.

Patton has been a news anchor at Spectrum News for almost three years. He values the importance of storytelling in his profession, and his experience in the television news industry has allowed him to create unique connections within the communities that he has interacted with.

This story was written by Whitney Welbaum ’23.

Maya Moore

A collegiate, Olympic and professional basketball champion, Moore will discuss the intersections of sports, spirituality, and the sustained pursuit of justice and opportunity. “Life with Purpose: A Conversation with Maya Moore, athlete and activist,” is part of the virtual event series leading up to the 36th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Sunday, Jan. 31, at 7 p.m. ET.

“Maya Moore has provided the world with an example of what service and sacrifice is. We can all take a page out of her playbook as we aspire to create the sort of change that impacts lives,” says Sean Dorcellus ’21, student co-chair of the organizing committee. “We are elated to learn more about her journey firsthand while honoring the legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”

“Maya Moore is a courageous leader and believer,” says the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel and co-chair of the organizing committee. “Through her own exploration of meaning and purpose, she invites us into a powerful conversation on how we too can spark and sustain personal and public change. We are honored and excited to host such an outstanding role model in the midst of these important times.”

Moore led the University of Connecticut women’s basketball team to two NCAA championships. After graduating in 2011, Moore joined the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) Minnesota Lynx organization, leading the team to four national championships. Moore’s success with the USA National Women’s Basketball team landed her a spot in the 2012 Olympic Games.

In 2019, Moore’s religious faith and passion for social justice led her to step away from competitive athletics at the height of her career, humbled by her interactions with a man in prison who had been falsely convicted for burglary. Moore committed her time to proving Jonathan Irons’ innocence, and consequently his charges were overturned and he was released from prison. Today, the 31-year-old Moore leads a life that emphasizes family, purpose and ministry.

On Jan. 27, Moore will speak about the converging worlds of athletics and ministry, the pursuit of opportunity, and her expression of faith through helping others.

View the full list of 2021 MLK Virtual Event Series programs on the . During registration, select “Life with Purpose: A Conversation with Maya Moore, athlete and activist,” from the list of program options. Guests may also register for the 36th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. Registrants will receive Zoom links to all selected programs in a confirmation email.

This story was written by Christina Kohl ’21

The 36th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee has announced the 2021 Unsung Hero Award winners.

The Unsung Hero awards are given to community members, students, faculty and staff who have made positive impacts on the lives of others but are not widely recognized for their contributions. The awards were created to honor Dr. King’s vision of creating positive change in a troubled world.

The award winners will be recognized at the 36th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. The event will be held online on Sunday, Jan. 31, at 7 p.m. featuring keynote speaker Ruby Bridges. Registration for the celebration is open to all and available on the .

This year’s Unsung Hero recipients are:

Bobbierre Heard��

Heard is the founder of BREKY clothing, a ground-breaking graphic designer, and a dynamic advocate for programs serving children with disabilities.

She earned an associate degree in business from Morrisville College in 2019 and is the first person in her family to graduate from college. She is currently working on a B.F.A in graphic and fine arts at SUNY Oswego. In addition to her academic pursuits, Heard launched her clothing line BREKY (Being Real Extraordinary Kool Youth) in 2015 and partnered with Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital to create an adaptive program for children with disabilities in 2018.

Heard’s passion to help others is influenced by her own experiences with a disability. Her personal experiences with cerebral palsy have driven her to advocate for inclusivity on behalf of others. Her work with Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital led to six children of differing abilities being able to participate in week-long winter adaptive sports activities in venues across Onondaga County.

“Her life, career and commitment to adaptive sports are a testament to what one can achieve amidst adversity. In a world that was not designed to foster her success, as a result of racism, patriarchy, homophobia and ableism, Bobbie persisted,” says Kishi Animashaun Ducre, associate dean of diversity, equity and inclusion and associate professor of African American Studies in the College of Arts and Sciences.

Heard has been able to achieve her dream of becoming part of the fashion industry and inspires others with her success.

Dr. Frederick C. Gilbeaux

Gilbeaux has been a practicing dentist for more than 30 years. Through his dentistry practice, located in Jamesville, New York, he serves those in need in many ways; and in the community he has an active role in countless service organizations.

Gilbeaux earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of North Texas in 1981 and continued his education at Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry, graduating with a doctor of dental surgery degree in 1987. He opened his practice in Jamesville in 1998. Gilbeaux has helped support underserved communities in Texas, Central Pennsylvania and New York by providing public health dentistry.

“I believe that Dr. Fred embodies Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy in many ways: his desire to help and inspire young people; his passion for giving back to the community; and his continued quest to better himself through education and professional practice,” says Emily Kulkus, assistant director of public and media relations at Upstate Medical University and adjunct instructor at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, who nominated Gilbeaux for the award.

Gilbeaux works with On Point for College, a local not-for-profit organization, as a mentor, former board member and volunteer driver, while also providing free dental care to students in need. He is also associated with Syracuse Sunrise Rotary, having served as president of the organization. Gilbeaux has also been a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. for 43 years.

Gilbeaux’s professional and community work has made him an important role model in his community. “His selfless dedication to others, combined with a consistently positive outlook on life, makes Dr. Fred someone any of us would be lucky to call a neighbor, colleague and friend,” says Kulkus.

Evan Weissman G’12

The late Evan Weissman was an associate professor in food studies and nutrition at Falk College. Weissman passed away on April 9, 2020, but his passion and work with social initiatives continues to serve as an inspiration for many. Weissman is receiving the award posthumously.

Weissman grew up in Syracuse and was passionate about his community. He joined the faculty of Falk College in 2012 and played a key role in creating the food studies program, for which he was the undergraduate director. He was also involved in Syracuse University’s Aging Studies Institute and the Maxwell School’s Department of Geography as an affiliated faculty member. Weissman put participatory learning and engagement at the forefront of his teaching and was also focused on equity, diversity and inclusion.

“As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. accomplished through his teachings and life example, Evan Weissman similarly challenged his students to create positive change, inspiring them and all who worked with him to create that change through his passionate and tireless leadership and example,” says Rick Welsh, professor and chair of the Falk College’s Department of Nutrition and Food Studies.

Weissman’s lasting impact on his community can be observed through his countless contributions to various organizations, movements and publications. He worked with My Lucky Tummy, WAER’s City Limits project, Syracuse-Onondaga Food Systems Alliance, and countless others as an expert on food justice. “A tireless advocate for equity in the food system, his local work continues to serve as a national best practices model for bringing food justice to communities across urban America,” says Welsh.

“Professor Weissman had an unwavering commitment to social justice and worked through both scholarship and practice to achieve more just local food systems. As a mentor, he imparted a strong belief that revolutionary food systems change is possible. I share the recurring question Dr. Weissman asked his students and himself: ‘How can we use food as a tool for social change?’” says Welsh.

Sameeha Saied ’21

Sameeha Saied, a senior majoring in psychology in the College of Arts and Sciences, is an engaged member of the Syracuse community, both on and off campus. She has deeply impacted and inspired those around her through her involvement in various organizations on campus.

Saied has made a lasting impact through her work with organizations including Student Association, OttoTHON, Literary Corps and OrangeSeeds. Additionally, she has served as an orientation leader and SEM 100 peer facilitator. Through these roles, she has acted as a mentor and leader to new students transitioning to life at Syracuse University. Driven by the desire to make all students feel included and welcome, she advocated to expand SEM 100 into a full academic course, which the University is now planning to do.

“Throughout these troubling times, Sameeha has reinvested hope, resilience and dedication to her new community. As a strong woman of color on campus, Sameeha has not only changed the lives of students on campus but she has also inspired others to find their own voice and call to action, by embracing their own identities and lived experiences,” says Jimmy Luckman, a program coordinator in the Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs and advisor to OrangeSeeds.

In addition to her work on campus, Saied is also actively involved in the greater Syracuse community. She volunteers through weekly Saturday service as an OrangeSeeds member. In addition to working as a summer intern at Vera House, she has also interned with Literary Crops to tutor children in the Syracuse City School District.

Saied’s work and dedication have not gone unnoticed by those around her. “Sameeha has been a multifaceted leader within the community and has expanded hope through her work in multiple different aspects on campus and in the Syracuse community. I cannot think of a student that is more deserving of being a MLK Unsung Hero,” says Luckman.

This story was written by Whitney Welbaum ’23

Martin Luther King Jr., right, and Professor Charles Willie during King’s 1965 visit to the Syracuse University campus.

The Day of Service is part of the 2021 MLK Virtual Event Series that leads up to the 36th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Jan. 31. The virtual series commemorates the cultural, social and artistic impact of the civil rights movement. The MLK Day of Service will be hosted by the Office of Engagement Programs at Hendricks Chapel, OrangeSeeds and the Office of First Year and Transfer Programs.

“Dr. King believed in uniting and strengthening communities, empowering individuals, addressing social issues and eliminating barriers. He gave of himself to make this world a better place for all. We serve to continue to honor and uplift the work that Dr. King started,” says Syeisha Byrd, director of the Office of Engagement Programs at Hendricks Chapel. “The purpose of the MLK Day of Service at Syracuse University is to encourage everyone to think outside of themselves and do something for the good of their communities.”

All participants in the MLK Day of Service are expected to follow COVID-19 health guidelines. A variety of virtual and socially distant service ideas are available for participants. A full list of ideas, as well as websites for connecting with local nonprofit and service organizations, are available on the .

“Syracuse University has planned a robust and wonderful 2021 celebration to honor Dr. King. This year we are excited to add this new component where students, faculty, staff and community members are encouraged to get involved and engaged within their communities,” says Jimmy Luckman, a program coordinator in the Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs. “Whether it is supporting a neighbor or front-line workers or going into the community to clean a park, there are many ways to give back to the community. Participating in the MLK Day of Service gives everyone the opportunity to be active and make a difference, online or physically, while keeping yourself and your community safe,”

Participants are asked to follow and tag @hendrickschapel on Instagram and use #DayOnSU in their photos on Jan. 18. Tagged posts may be featured on the MLK Day of Service web page to celebrate the work being done by each individual.

It is vital for students to serve their communities to gain a better understanding of others around them, say Gursimar Singh ’21 and Jack Ramza ’22, co-directors of OrangeSeeds and event coordinators.

“Community service is a hands-on learning experience that teaches students life-skills that cannot be taught within a classroom setting,” says Singh.

“Students can make a direct, positive impact in their local communities,” Ramza adds.

Visit thewebsite for more information regarding the 2021 MLK Day of Service and other events. For questions related to the Day of Service, contact Syeisha Byrd at smbyrd@syr.edu.

This story was written by��Whitney Welbaum ’23

Ruby Bridges (Photo by Tom Dumont)

Bridges, one of the first African American students to attend an all-white elementary school in the South, will reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. King, as well as the impact of education in sparking and sustaining social change.

“We are honored to host Ruby Bridges as our keynote speaker,” says the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel and co-chair of the organizing committee. “Over 60 years ago she displayed groundbreaking courage and life-changing compassion, and today she continues to embody a daring faith that is so dearly needed in our time and beyond. We are fortunate to host her. She is the right person for the right time.”

Sixty years ago, in November 1960, then 6-year-old Bridges was escorted past angry crowds that gathered daily near the steps of William Frantz Elementary School in New Orleans. The image of federal marshals walking Bridges to class became part of the iconic “The Problem We All Live With” painting by acclaimed artist Norman Rockwell. Despite the angry mobs and threats hurled toward her each day, Bridges refused to miss a single day of school. She blazed a trail for others to follow and has since inspired generations of students in the United States and beyond.

“Ruby Bridges is an inspiration. Many students, including myself, learned about her story when we were in elementary school. She is an integral part of our country’s living history,” says Sean Dorcellus ’21, student co-chair of the organizing committee. “She is an excellent choice as a speaker, as she connects the past with the present and brings motivation for us to create a better future.”

Learn more about Bridges’ life and work on the .

Due to COVID-19 guidelines and a commitment to health and safety, the 2021 MLK Celebration will be held fully online. In addition to the keynote address featuring Bridges, the event will also feature community and student performances, the presentation of the 2021 Unsung Hero Awards, and several new and interactive pre-celebration programs.

2021 MLK Virtual Event Series schedule:

• MLK Day of Service on Monday, Jan. 18.
• Dinner at Home: Virtual Cooking Classes with Salt City Market on Monday, Jan. 25, and Tuesday, Jan. 26, at 6 p.m. ET
• Life with Purpose: A Conversation with Maya Moore, athlete and activist on Wednesday, Jan. 27, at 8 p.m. ET
• Sheroes of Poetry: Spoken Word Poetry by Women Authors on Friday, Jan. 29, at 7 p.m. ET
• 36th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration with Ruby Bridges on Sunday, Jan. 31, at 7 p.m. ET

Registration for the 2021 MLK Celebration and all pre-celebration programs is free and open to all. Visit the for full descriptions of the programs. Closed captioning and American Sign Language will be provided at all events.

“While each year we look forward to gathering on campus for a dinner and program, we are doing all that we can to ensure a meaningful and memorable experience,” says Syeisha Byrd, director of the Office of Engagement Programs at Hendricks Chapel and member of the planning committee. “While this year will be different than the previous 35 years of MLK Celebrations, we are committed to cooperating with community partners to ensure an inclusive and engaging experience. This will be a memorable program for what has been a memorable year.”

To request additional accommodations or additional information, email chapel@syr.edu.

The Unsung Hero nominations and auditions videos are both due on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 11:59 p.m. ET. Audition and nomination forms, as well as additional information, are available at .

The Unsung Hero Awards are presented annually to people who, in the spirit of King’s “beloved community,” have made a positive difference in the lives of others, but who are not widely recognized for their efforts. To be eligible for this award, nominees should not have received widespread recognition or been previously honored for their efforts, and their work should be ongoing and outside their normal job/student expectations.

Nominations may be made in any of the following categories:

• youth/teen from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• adult from Onondaga, Madison, Oswego, Cayuga or Cortland counties
• student at Syracuse University or SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (SUNY-ESF)
• faculty or staff from Syracuse University or SUNY-ESF

There are two ways to nominate an Unsung Hero:

• Fill out an .
• Print and fill out this and mail it to: Awards Committee, Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee, Hendricks Chapel, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244-1110.

Each year at the MLK Celebration, performers light up the stage in celebration of King’s life and legacy. Auditions are open to all composers, dancers, instrumentalists, poets, singers and other creators and artists. Students, student groups, and individuals and groups from the greater Syracuse community are welcome to perform in the celebration.

Two ways to audition to perform:

• Fill out the and submit an audition video according to the outlined specifications.
• For those who need an alternate audition method, contact chapelevents@syr.edu.

With questions about Unsung Hero nominations or performance auditions, please email chapelevents@syr.edu.

Jack Ramza

Jack Ramza ’22 is almost halfway through his time at��Syracuse University��and has already achieved great success. Ramza was recently honored with an��Unsung Hero Award��at the��35th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. These awards are given annually to community members who have made a positive impact on the lives of others but are not widely recognized.

Ramza is pursuing a dual bachelor’s degree in accounting from the����and advertising from the��. Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, he decided to attend Syracuse to complete the Whitman-Newhouse dual degree program and experience living on the East Coast.

Ramza is heavily involved in a variety of service and professional organizations on campus. He is currently serving as the community relations chair on the executive board for OrangeSeeds, the first-year leadership empowerment program at Syracuse. He is a member of Delta Upsilon fraternity, where he is the current recruitment chair and past public relations chair. Ramza was also a peer mentor for the Whitman School in the fall.

Ramza says that the most beneficial aspect of his education at Syracuse is studying in both the Whitman and Newhouse schools. He is grateful to be able to learn about the analytical and business side of a company at Whitman one day, and about the internal and external communications aspects of an organization at Newhouse the next. He is confident that this unique educational experience is one that he can successfully discuss with employers.

Jack receives an Unsung Hero Award from Chancellor Kent Syverud at the 35th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

“Another valuable experience of my education is being a part of group projects and presentations,” Ramza says. “Each semester, many of my classes involve working in teams on a group project. This has made me more confident collaborating in a team environment and has helped refine my public speaking.”

Last year, Ramza was involved with the����and competed in the��. He also had the opportunity to intern as a first-year student with , the boutique public relations firm at Newhouse. He worked on a team that helped rebrand and market the branch’s 10th-anniversary gala.

Currently, Ramza is an intern for StayBillety, an accommodation service connecting guests and hosts with shared interests. As the lead social media intern, he is primarily responsible for monitoring the progress of his team and ensuring that the company’s message is conveyed effectively through its social media channels.

“I am extremely thankful for the success I have had thus far at Syracuse. I must thank all of my peers and professors for helping shape my experience. You can’t accomplish anything alone,” Ramza shares.

Story by Lindsey Godbout ’20.��

Members of Dominique’s Dance Creations perform during the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Sunday evening in the Dome.

Members of the University and greater Syracuse communities gathered in the Dome Sunday night for powerful performances and speakers at the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. Civil rights leader the Rev. Raphael Warnock, senior pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, the spiritual home of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., was the featured speaker for the event, which is the largest of its kind on a college campus and seeks to honor the message and mission of Dr. King.

Highlights also included musical and dance performances by students and community members and presentations of the Unsung Hero Awards to five individuals who, in the spirit of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “beloved community,” have made a positive difference in the lives of others.

Below are some of the special moments captured of the evening’s events.

The Black Celestial Choral Ensemble and Syracuse University’s 2020 MLK Community Choir perform a musical selection during the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Sunday in the Dome.

Civil rights leader the Rev. Raphael Warnock, senior pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, the spiritual home of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., was the featured speaker at the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Sunday in the Dome.

Keri Courtwright receives the Unsung Hero Award from Chancellor Kent Syverud at the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Lemir Teron is recognized with an Unsung Hero Award by Chancellor Kent Syverud at the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Justine Hastings ’21 receives the Unsung Hero Award at the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Jack Ramza ’22 receives the Unsung Hero Award from Chancellor Kent Syverud at the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Ada Abreu accepts the Unsung Hero Award on behalf of her husband, Pedro Abreu G’02, from Chancellor Kent Syverud at the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Members of the Black Celestial Choral Ensemble and Syracuse University’s 2020 MLK Community Choir perform during the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Over 2,000 people gathered to honor the message and mission of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the 35th annual MLK Celebration.

A group of attendees poses beneath a quilt depicting Dr. King and the message “and from this moment there can be no turning back” at the 35th annual Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

A sweet moment of togetherness at the 35th annual Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

The Rev. Raphael Warnock delivers his keynote remarks at the 2020 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

The 2020 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration was held Sunday night in the Dome, featuring a keynote address by the Rev. Raphael Warnock. Warnock is the senior pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, the spiritual home of Dr. King. Spectrum News anchor Iris St. Meran served as master of ceremonies.

Held annually since 1985, the University’s celebration is the largest on-campus event in the United States to honor Dr. King’s legacy. Ashley Laird ’21, a student member of the 2020 Planning Team, said they intended for the celebration to be “a direct expression of their collective commitment to foster and support an inclusive and accessible campus community.”

In his keynote remarks to the more than 2,000 people in attendance, Warnock spoke about what he hears most around King’s birthday. “I often get asked around this time of year what Martin Luther King Jr. would be saying or doing in response to the great issues of our time,” Warnock said. “It is a question striking in its singularity because there’ve been many great personalities in the past to come our way.” Warnock said the reason people ask this question is because Martin Luther King Jr. “is the greatest American this country has ever produced.”

He exhorted the audience to come together in unity to fight bigotry and hate, saying, “Let’s not turn on each other, but turn toward each other.”

Syracuse University Chancellor Kent Syverud discussed King’s visit to campus in 1965, saying our community would continue his legacy and “achieve our goals not through words but through disciplined action.”

Unsung Hero Awards were presented to local community members who make a positive impact in the lives of others, though their efforts may not be widely recognized. This year’s awards went to Keri Courtwright, Lemir Teron, Justine Hastings ’21, Pedro Abreu G’02 and Jack Ramza ’22.

The event also showcased a performance by Dominique’s Dance Creations. Syracuse University’s 2020 MLK Community Choir sang with gospel group Heaven’s Fire and the Black Celestial Choral Ensemble of Syracuse University.

View a photo gallery of special moments from this year’s Celebration.

Iris St. Meran

Iris St. Meran, news anchor for Spectrum News Syracuse, will serve as emcee for the�� to be held on Sunday, Jan. 26, at 5 p.m. in the Dome.

“Iris St. Meran is a talented, trusted and popular public figure,” says the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “The Celebration Planning Committee was overjoyed when she accepted our invitation. We are confident that her presence will contribute to a wonderful celebration.”

The featured speaker at this year’s celebration is civil rights leader the Rev. Raphael Warnock, senior pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, the spiritual home of Dr. King. Warnock will speak to his connection with Dr. King under the theme, “A Living Legacy.” The celebration is the largest of its kind on a college campus and features performances, dinner and the presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards.

Tickets for the dinner and program and program only may be purchased��, in person at the Dome Box Office located in the Ensley Athletic Center at 1315 E. Colvin St. (Monday 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.), and by phone (888-DOME-TIX or 315.443.2121, option “four”).

St. Meran has created a special connection with Central New York and Syracuse as a television news anchor at Spectrum News. St. Meran pursued her degree in journalism at Emerson College in Boston, Massachusetts, where she also worked as a desk assistant and web producer at New England Cable News, now NBC Boston. St. Meran quickly immersed herself in the local community after moving to Upstate New York from Boston in 2008.

St. Meran has covered a myriad of meaningful stories since joining the Spectrum News team. She earned a first-place award from the New York Associated Press for her series Addicted: Heroin’s Hold. That series is an example of St. Meran’s passion for telling stories that make a difference in the lives of her viewers. In another multipart series, Troubled Water: Crisis in Flint, St. Meran found inspiration in that Michigan community’s ability to come together in the midst of crisis.

St. Meran serves as a mentor to students at the Institute of Technology at Syracuse Central in the Syracuse City School District. She also co-hosts a podcast called “The Ladies’ Room,” which features women making an impact on the world. She and her co-host, Jennifer Sanders, were profiled in Syracuse Woman Magazine for their work on the podcast and contributions to the Syracuse community. St. Meran has run the Utica Boilermaker 5K, and she enjoys the area’s vibrant history. She has spent her time here meeting the people, participating in the activities and exploring the places so special to Central New York.

The awards are bestowed annually on people who, in the spirit of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “beloved community,” have made a positive difference in the lives of others, but who are not widely recognized for their efforts. The categories include community member, student, faculty and staff.

This year’s recipients will be honored at the��, to be held this year on Sunday, Jan. 26, at 5 p.m. in the Dome. The featured speaker is civil rights leader, the Rev. Raphael Warnock, senior pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, the spiritual home of Dr. King. Warnock will speak to his connection with Dr. King under the theme, “A Living Legacy.” The celebration is the largest of its kind on a college campus and features performances, dinner and the presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards.

Tickets for the dinner and program and program only may be purchased��, in person at the Dome Box Office located in the Ensley Athletic Center at 1315 E. Colvin St. (Monday 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.), and by phone (888-DOME-TIX or 315.443.2121, option “four”).

This year’s Unsung Hero recipients are:

Community Member

Pedro Abreu

Pedro Abreu

Pedro Abreu G’02 is a social worker at Seymour Elementary School, a dual language school in Syracuse’s Near Westside. Abreu brings compassion, leadership and care to his vocation of serving alongside youth from across Syracuse.

Abreu’s family moved to New York City from the Dominican Republic at age 10. After graduating from high school, he joined the U.S. Army and was stationed overseas before serving at Fort Drum and Griffiss Air Force Base. When his time in active military service concluded, Abreu and his spouse chose to remain in Syracuse instead of returning to New York City, so that they could continue to help the Syracuse community.

“His family wanted him to settle closer to them, but his passion for seeing Syracuse’s children and youth improve their quality of life would not let him leave Upstate New York,” says Jonathan Santiago, Abreu’s friend and fellow social activist. Santiago is the Send Relief director in Puerto Rico and a former Baptist Chaplain at Syracuse University.

While in Syracuse, Abreu earned a master’s degree in social work at Syracuse University’s David B. Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics. In addition to his career as a social worker, Abreu has applied the skills he learned at Syracuse University in other community engagement, sport and anti-crime programs, including as a volunteer youth basketball coach at Skiddy Park in the Near Westside.

As a social worker at Seymour Elementary School, Abreu has worked with students to develop important skills and a trajectory for success. After Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico, the Syracuse City School District, and particularly Seymour Elementary School, received an influx of students whose families had moved to Syracuse to rebuild their lives. Abreu started a support group for students at Seymour where they could talk about the impact of the storm on their lives.

Abreu brings the discipline of a veteran, the compassion of his Syracuse University education as a social worker and his spiritual wisdom as a pastor and Baptist ordained minister to all of his work, says Santiago. Just as King brought the teachings of his Baptist faith to his social activism, so does Abreu, in turn embodying the legacy of King in his work.

Syracuse University Staff

Keri Courtwright

Keri Courtwright

Keri Courtwright doesn’t stop working when she leaves her job each day as a custodian with Facilities Services at Syracuse University. At home, she logs onto Facebook, where she is the founder and lead administrator of Pay It Forward CNY, a community of more than 7,000 central New Yorkers that connects people in need with people who want to give. Courtwright has impacted the lives of thousands of people in the Syracuse community through this group and all that she does for her neighbors.

Two years ago, Courtwright came up with the concept for Pay It Forward CNY when she saw a Facebook post from a friend who was was in need of clothing.. In an interview with SU News, Courtwright said she realized there was no online platform for central New Yorkers to ask for or give goods and services for free. She decided to create one. Since then, Pay It Forward CNY has helped connect thousands of people together in moments of positivity, kindness and service.

“Keri’s belief in kindness has changed the course of life for so many in our area, and it seems like momentum continues to build around the work she’s doing,” says Julie Walas, director of Student Engagement in the School of Information Studies and member of Pay It Forward CNY.

Courtwright spends several hours a day approving posts, scheduling transportation, handling requests and more in the Facebook group. Each Sunday during the summer months, she hosts a clothing giveaway event in her driveway in as an open space for the community to give and receive. This holiday season, she and her co-administrators organized a gift drive, wrapped presents, stuffed stockings and delivered the gifts to children and families across CNY.

Beyond the physical exchange of much-needed goods and services, Courtwright makes sure to spread emotional positivity and wellbeing within the Facebook group. Each day she posts inspirational quotes and kind words that “give people hope,” says Jami Freeman, a childcare provider in Syracuse and member of Pay It Forward CNY. “Keri exemplifies Dr. King’s legacy by creating hope for humanity and helping to lighten the load of people living in poverty.”

Courtwright, who has worked at the University for more than 13 years, recently brought her personal brand of kindness and positivity to campus. After acts of hate speech occurred on campus, Courtwright shared inspirational quotes and photos throughout campus to spread positivity to the University community.

One exchange and kind word at a time, Courtwright is making Syracuse and CNY a better place. “Keri Lynn is a beautiful person with a great big heart,” says Freeman.

SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry Faculty

Lemir Teron

Lemir Teron

Environmental justice professor Lemir Teron’s field of study lies at the intersection environmental science, social justice and ecological sustainability. As an assistant professor in the Environmental Studies department at SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry, Teron is a celebrated teacher whose outspoken support for people and communities of color has extended far beyond the boundaries of the SUNY-ESF campus.

Teron’s research, classroom teaching and community engagement focuses on the study of environmental justice, which is the movement to end systemic environmental harm acted upon marginalized populations. Teron brings the ideas of environmental sustainability and social justice together.

“He empowers students in his classroom and constantly challenges their line of thinking from the moment they enter the environmental studies program,” says Emily Li ’22, a SUNY-ESF student. “People are humbled yet energized in his class, feeling a call to action after every lecture.”

Teron is a widely popular professor at SUNY-ESF for his engaging classes and extensive mentorship. In class, he offers opportunities for students to work directly with community organizations, says Li. Teron also brings students to local sites that are part of his research, including the I-81 interstate highway.

Students of color across campusknow Teron as a generous mentor, says Laura Crandall, director of Student Involvement and Leadership at SUNY-ESF. Teron also actively involves students of color in his research group to ensure they are career ready. For his selfless commitment to students, Teron was awarded the 2019 Distinguished Faculty Member for Teaching Excellence Award from SUNY-ESF’s Undergraduate Student Association.

Teron’s research extends into the Syracuse community. He has shared his knowledge of environmental science as an advisor to the New York Civil Liberties Union’s I-81 campaign. His recognition as an expert in the field is also evident in his position on the Central New York Regional Economic Development Council’s Environmental Justice task force.

As King fought against systemic racism, Teron is working to ensure the next iteration of the interstate highway is developed with Syracuse’s Black communities at the forefront of decision making. He brings the same care and passion for justice to his teaching.

“Dr. Teron is a faculty member that helps underrepresented students feel at home and valued at ESF,” says Kailyn Wright, director of the Educational Opportunity Program at SUNY-ESF. “When students speak of him, their words are filled with gratitude.”

Syracuse University Student

Justine Hastings

Justine Hastings

Justine Hastings ’21 empowers the youth in her community through filmmaking, education and compassion. A double major in secondary English education in the School of Education and English and textual studies in the College of Arts and Sciences, Hastings utilizes creative teaching tools to engage students of all backgrounds and abilities.

“She is committed to equity and expanding educational access and opportunity for all,” says Elizabeth Guanipatin ’21, a friend and peer to Hastings. “She is a passionate advocate for systemic change for all those not in a position of access and privilege.”

At Syracuse University, Hastings has been a researcher, educator and leader, as well as a student. One of her recent accomplishments was earning a grant from the Syracuse Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Engagement (SOURCE) to start a documentary filmmaking program for high school students at the North Side Learning Center in Syracuse. There, she will teach students the basics of documentary filmmaking and will evaluate the impact of creating their own films on the students’ literacy.

Hastings has an extensive background in educating youth in filmmaking and media literacy. During the summers of 2017 and 2018, Hastings interned at multiple nonprofits focused on the media arts in Brooklyn, New York. In those positions, she guided young filmmakers through the visual storytelling process. “With her patience and empathy, Justine has and continues to create safe and engaging spaces for artists at all stages of the filmmaking process, and aims to provide the creative inspiration, individual attention and intellectual environment they need,” says Guanipatin.

In addition to working with youth and filmmaking, Hastings is a mentor to students of all ages. She has served as an English tutor at Solvay High School and Grant Middle School, is an academic coach for the University’s Center for Learning and Student Success, and is a student research mentor at SOURCE. Hastings was also a peer facilitator of the Syracuse Reads Program/SEM 100, a five-week seminar that engages new students in shared reflection and discussion about themes of identity, belonging, diversity, inclusion and health and wellness.

Hastings’ generous compassion and empathy also extends to peer-to-peer support networks. She has served as an InclusiveU residential mentor and a facilitator for the LGBT Resource Center’s Fusion program, which brings LGBT+ students of color together for mutual support. Hastings is also an Our Time Has Come Scholar, Ronald E. McNair Scholar and a student in the Renée Crown University Honors Program.

In her life’s work and dedication to others, Hastings demonstrates commitment to King’s vision of equality, compassion and justice.

Syracuse University Student

Jack Ramza

Jack Ramza

As the community relations chair of the University student leadership program OrangeSeeds, Jack Ramza ’22 is committed to building sustainable and impactful relationships with community organizations . During his two years at Syracuse University, Ramza has built a reputation of integrity, commitment to social justice and compassion for others that seeps into his numerous roles as a campus leader.

“Instead of ‘checking a box’ or simply logging hours, Jack has been able to embody the values that Martin Luther King Jr. taught many individuals, which are the importance of listening and learning from others,” says Jimmy Luckman, a program coordinator in the Office of First-Year and Transfer Programs and advisor to OrangeSeeds.

OrangeSeeds is a first-year student leadership empowerment program designed to help first-year and transfer students develop into confident campus leaders. During the program, students participate in weekly community service and organize the Big Event, the largest student-run day of community service at Syracuse University.

Ramza works directly with community organizations to coordinate weekly community service activities in his position in OrangeSeeds. These organizations include The Nottingham senior living facility, Boys & Girls Clubs of Syracuse, OttoTHON, We Rise Above the Streets and more. Ramza strategically collaborates with community leaders when choosing service projects in order to maximize positive impact, says Luckman.

In addition to building OrangeSeeds’ presence in the Syracuse community, Ramza works with OrangeSeeds members to engage in intrapersonal reflection and dialogue. He takes time during meetings to encourage students to reflect on their impact in the community and what they learn from their experiences. “Jack is helping these future local, national and international leaders understand the importance of giving back to their community and making a commitment to better the lives of others,” says Luckman.

Ramza brings this same commitment to positive change in his positions across campus. He is a peer mentor for the Martin J. Whitman School of Management, recruitment chair for the Delta Upsilon International Fraternity and a former competitor in the Hult Prize through the Blackstone Launchpad. Ramza is dually enrolled in the Martin J. Whitman School of Management and S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, where he earned the D’Aniello Freshman Merit Scholarship and Newhouse First-Year Achievement Award.

Ramza embodies King’s belief in the power of education to create open-minded and service-oriented citizens. “Jack has sustained my hope in the education system because of his eagerness and excitement about engaging in his community,” says Luckman.

The events are a performance by and conversation with Dexter McKinney ’08, G’13, titled “Transcending Race and Adversity,” on Tuesday, Jan. 21; a poetry event, “Sheroes of Poetry,” on Friday, Jan. 24; and a performance by Sonny Kelly, titled “The Talk,” on Tuesday, Jan. 28.

The Rev. Raphael Warnock

The MLK Celebration will be held on Sunday, Jan. 26, in the Dome. Civil rights leader the Rev. Raphael Warnock, senior pastor of the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, the spiritual home of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., will be the featured speaker.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be available for the event.

“The annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration seeks to honor the life and legacy of a leader who brought hope and healing to our world,” says the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel, and a member of the 35th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Planning Committee. “By providing additional opportunities we will continue our important and collective work, so we may foster and support an inclusive and accessible campus community for all.”

The additional events offer campus community members further experiences for greater understanding of the complex themes of race, inequality and justice in our society. The performers will share their compelling stories and hope to provide audience members insight and inspiration.

Kennedy Hagens ’21, co-chair of diversity affairs, Student Association, encourages the campus community to attend the events. “These events continue the dialogue about racial equality and work toward educating the campus community about the dimensions of race and justice in our society,” Hagens says.

“It will be a great opportunity to celebrate culture and community on campus,” says Lujane Juburi ’22, co-chair of diversity affairs, Student Association.

Tuesday, Jan. 21, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Joyce Hergenhan Auditorium, Newhouse 3

Dexter McKinney

“When They See Us” actor, global entrepreneur and consultant, and teacher Dexter McKinney will share his inspiring story of how he managed to transcend race and adversity in the City of Syracuse while making his dreams come true.

Sponsored by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and co-sponsored by the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Planning Committee and the Office of Community Engagement, McKinney’s performance will provide audience members with a view into the life of a young, African American man, the challenges and adversity he has faced and their ties to race, and how that adversity transformed his life and has helped him transform the lives of others.

McKinney, who grew up on the South Side of Syracuse, earned a bachelor’s and two master’s degrees from Syracuse University. He has worked in Congress, at Nike and in the Office of the Onondaga County Executive Joanie Mahoney. He has appeared in roles in television, theater and film, including Netflix’s critically acclaimed miniseries “When They See Us.”

McKinney will perform “Transcending Race and Adversity,” which will be followed by an interview and an audience Q&A session.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be provided. To request additional accommodations, contact diversity@syr.edu.

“Dexter McKinney’s story has meaning for everyone. Overcoming racial adversity is no small feat,” says Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Keith A. Alford. “Likewise, spoken word poetry by women promises to take us to new levels of understanding. All MLK events will raise our consciousness about racial equality.”

Friday, Jan. 24, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Community Black Box Theatre, Community Folk Art Center

“Sheroes of Poetry” brings together a dynamic group of women to share their unique, yet shared, stories in poetry-form.

“Sheroes of Poetry” brings together a dynamic group of women to share their unique, yet shared, stories in poetry form. They will explore our understanding of how race, and being a woman of color, is viewed in society.

Sponsored by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and co-sponsored by the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Planning Committee and the Office of Community Engagement, “Sheroes of Poetry” challenges audience members to open themselves to the lived experience of others and reimagine how women of color should be viewed in this world.

Please for this event as space is limited. Heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served at 6:30 p.m.; the program will begin at 7 p.m.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation will be provided. To request additional accommodations, contact diversity@syr.edu.

Tuesday, Jan. 28, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Grant Auditorium, White Hall

Sonny Kelly

The Talk is a one-man performance by that draws on the voices of ancestors, elders, youths and intellectuals to engage in the difficult conversations that we must have with our children as we prepare them to survive and thrive in a divided America. This eclectic theatrical experience weaves together storytelling, interactive theater, literature, a dynamic embodied performance and a multi-media production to engage audiences in conversations around reconciliation.

Kelly is a master of storytelling, acting, Shakespeare, theater arts, poetry, spoken word, group facilitation, interpersonal communication, performance studies, training and teaching. He captures the attention and imaginations of audiences of all ages with the power of words.

With more than 20 years of experience as a professional actor, over a decade of youth work and a master’s degree in communication studies, Kelly knows the smart way to tap into the minds of students and workers of all ages.

A talk-back session will follow the performance.

The event is sponsored by the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA), the 35th annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Planning Committee and the Office of Diversity and Inclusion.

“These MLK events facilitate the kinds of difficult conversations that help a university community honor one another’s life experiences,” says James Haywood Rolling Jr., dual professor of art education and teaching and leadership in VPA and the School of Education and the chair of art education, and VPA’s director of diversity, equity and inclusion. “VPA initiated the effort to bring Sonny Kelly to campus in order to prompt more ‘talk’ about difficult matters.”

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be provided. To request additional accommodations for “The Talk,” contact James Haywood Rolling Jr. at jrolling@syr.edu or 315.443.6779.

Tickets for the dinner and program .

This annual event at Syracuse University is the largest of its kind on a college campus and seeks to honor the message and mission of Dr. King. This year’s theme is “A Living Legacy.”

The son of two Pentecostal pastors, Warnock responded to the call of ministry at an early age, and in 2005—at the age of 35—became the fifth and youngest person ever called to the senior pastorate of Ebenezer Baptist Church, founded in 1886. In addition to his ministry in Atlanta, which has included bringing in 4,000 new members at Ebenezer, Warnock is one of the most sought-after and respected teachers and preachers in the nation.

Ebenezer Baptist Church, known as “American’s Freedom Church,” was served by the Rev. Martin Luther King Sr., known as “Daddy King,” from 1931 to 1975 and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. from 1960 until his assassination in 1968. Today, Ebenezer has 6,000 total members and continues to serve the Atlanta community and beyond from the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.

Dr. Warnock is a graduate of the Leadership Program sponsored by the Greater Baltimore Committee, the Summer Leadership Institute of Harvard University and Leadership Atlanta. Dr. Warnock graduated from Morehouse College cum laude in 1991, receiving a bachelor of arts degree in psychology. He also holds a master of divinity degree from Union Theological Seminary in New York City, from which he graduated with honors and distinctions. Seeing his pastoral work as tied to the ministry of scholarship and the life of the mind, Dr. Warnock continued his graduate studies at Union, receiving a master of philosophy degree and a doctor of philosophy degree in the field of systematic theology. He is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., the 100 Black Men of Atlanta, Inc. and a Lifetime Member of the NAACP. Dr. Warnock’s activism was honored in 2016, as his footprints were placed on the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame.

Among other honors, Dr. Warnock has been recognized as one of “Atlanta’s 55 Most Powerful” by Atlanta magazine, one of the “New Kingdom Voices” by Gospel Today magazine, one of “God’s Trombones” by the Rainbow Push Coalition, a “Good Shepherd” by Associated Black Charities, one of the “Chosen Pastors” by The Gospel Choice Awards, “A Man of Influence” by the Atlanta Business League, one of The Root 100 in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2013 (TheRoot.com is a division of The Washington Post), one of the “Top 10 Most Influential Black Ministers” by Loop 21, one of the “20 Top African American Church Leaders” by TheRoot.com, and he has received the Reverend Dr. William A. Jones Justice Award from the National Action Network. He is a National TRIO Achiever Award recipient and has been honored by induction into the Martin Luther King Jr. Board of Preachers. As an opinion leader, his perspective has been sought out by electronic and print media, locally, nationally and internationally. His work has been featured on CNN, the CBS Evening News, the Huffington Post and in the Atlanta Journal and Constitution which hailed him “a leader among Atlanta and national clergy, a fitting heir to the mantle once worn by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.”

“We are honored and excited to welcome Rev. Raphael Warnock to Syracuse as our featured speaker,” said the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “Warnock, both literally and spiritually, stands in the footsteps of kings at Ebenezer Baptist Church. He speaks and serves with authority on how we too can participate in a living legacy. This is a special and timely opportunity.”

This year marks the 35th year for the MLK Celebration, which will include Warnock’s address, student and community group performances, and presentation of this year’s Unsung Hero Awards. The event takes place on Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020 in the Dome.

Dinner will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. near the Dome’s west end zone, followed by the main program from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the east side.

Following are the various ticket purchase options:

• Syracuse University staff, faculty and the general public (dinner and program): $30
• Syracuse University staff, faculty and general public (main program only): $15
• Students (dinner and program): $15
• Students (main program only): $5

All tickets for the dinner will be assigned a table number at the time of purchase, which will be printed on the ticket. Guests interested in sitting with friends are recommended to purchase tickets together to ensure the same table assignment.

Guests may order up to 10 dinner and program tickets online. To purchase one full table (10 seats), select 10 total tickets and proceed to checkout. To purchase more than one table or more than 10 individual tickets, or if experiencing difficulties, please call the Dome Box Office at 888.DOME.TIX (315.443.2121), option four. Guests may order up to 50 program only tickets at a time.

All dinner guests will be seated in the 100-level section of the Dome stands for the program that follows dinner. All guests attending the program only will be seated in the 200-level of the Dome stands. Seating is general admission in those areas for the program.

Tickets are available online at��, in person at the Dome Box Office, located in the Ensley Athletic Center at 1315 East Colvin St. (Monday 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Tuesday through Friday 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) and by phone (888.DOME.TIX or 315.443.2121, option four). Tickets will be mailed or available at will call on the night of the event.

Free parking for the event will be available in the Irving Avenue Garage and in lots west of the Dome. Visit our ��for maps and directions. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be available for the event. Accessible seating will be provided on the concourse level of the Dome.

For more information about the event or to request accommodations, please contact Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu or 315.443.2901.

Sunday night in the Dome: a big meal for a big event. (Photo by Evan Jenkins)

Jim Ponzi, associate director of production and commissary operations, started work on Thursday at 7:30 a.m. After a full day of overseeing operations of Syracuse University’s food production, serving an average of 17,000 meals, he worked past midnight. An Orange men’s basketball game against Miami tipped off at 8 p.m., and he stayed to do a final deposit. He returned on Friday morning at 7 a.m. “It’s a life,” said Ponzi. “Well, we say it’s a lifestyle. You get used to it.”

Ponzi and the entire staff had been preparing for the on Sunday. The Food Services management team has extensive experience with the event.

“Now that we’ve done it for so long, it’s not like it’s any big deal,” said Mark Tewksbury, director of residence dining and dome operations. “I’ve done every one of them.”

The Food Services management team has been with the University for several decades. “I started as a student. You know, we all started as students,” Ponzi said.

“I was one of the student workers in this building (Brockway Dining Center),” said Tewksbury.

Though the MLK event is the largest on-campus event of its kind in the country, for Food Services it is just another day.

The bake shop at the Commissary. (Photo by Keone Weigl)

“There’s a lot of people at the University who do that. It’s not just us in Food Services,” said Sue Bracy, director of retail and catering operations. “There’s a lot of people that have that same kind of service mentality. We’re the people that get it done, and then we just do it.”

“Events of this size require all hands on deck,” said Tewksbury. “Almost our whole department works the event, and we just kind of divide and conquer.”

The MLK event included dinner, musical performances, presentation of the annual Unsung Hero awards and an on-stage conversation with Trevor Noah, host of and author of (Random House, 2016).

Syracuse University Food Services—a department within Auxiliary Services and part of the Division of Business, Finance and Administrative Services—operates all of the cafés and dining centers on campus. For Sunday, it was responsible for putting together and serving a meal for 1,600 attendees. All while continuing the regular routines—like preparing food for campus events and dining areas; servicing vending machines, ATMs, washers and dryers; delivering and stocking coffee for 350 offices on campus—without interruption.

The MLK Celebration planning process begins in the fall semester. A committee convenes to choose a menu, though the menu has remained relatively unchanged from year to year. “Once we find a spec on a product or a recipe that we like, we keep it,” Ponzi explained.

This year’s menu included: southern style macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, ribs, a vegan native harvest couscous, green beans, sweet potato pie, banana pudding and vegan chocolate cake. “We also offer halal, kosher and gluten free,” added Ponzi.

Around six weeks before the event, Ponzi looked at historical attendance data of the MLK celebration to determine how much food to order. Food ordering is completed with a bid system. As the food arrives to the 55,000-square-foot Commissary warehouse through two sets of loading docks, it is checked in and stored.

Part of the Cook-Chill facility at the Commissary. (Photo by Keone Weigl)

Two weeks out, food preparation began in the Production Kitchen for use in the Cook-Chill process, also located at the Commissary. The Cook-Chill facility consists of a pair of 100-gallon and 150-gallon kettles that sit adjacent to each other, a filling station, a tumble chiller and a cook tank in a space roughly the size of a classroom. The facility was built in 1992 and allows one person to cook hundreds of pounds of food at a time. “We’re the first university that uses this technology,” Ponzi said.

The Cook-Chill facility is essentially a mini-manufacturing plant, Ponzi explained. Black-eyed peas, all soups, sauces, gravies and macaroni and cheese are prepared in the Production Kitchen and then cooked and chilled in the Cook-Chill facility. The process works like this: food is prepared in the large bowls, pasteurized and stored in individual four- or eight-quart bags (depending on the product). Once the storage bag is sealed, the bag is placed in a tumble chiller. “We get it from 180 down to 45 degrees in less than an hour,” said Ponzi. The shelf life of the food is 28 days when refrigerated; however, if it has not been delivered to campus within 14 days, Ponzi elects to have the food frozen. That ensures the highest-quality product, he said.

Utilizing the Cook-Chill method, black-eyed peas were prepared two weeks before the MLK event. Southern macaroni and cheese preparation began on the Tuesday before the event. A separate day is dedicated to cooking vegan items to avoid contamination, said Ponzi.

On Friday, the pasteurized bags of made-from-scratch southern macaroni and cheese were delivered by truck to the Dome. In the Dome kitchen, the macaroni and cheese was put in pans and browned in the oven the day of the event.

In the cook tank, a large rectangular box that resembles a storage freezer, 600 pounds of ribs were cooked. They were later dipped in barbecue sauce by hand and then stored on large trays. They were browned in a large production oven Sunday morning.

Regular food production is still ongoing during the MLK Celebration prep process. “I’ve got an overnight crew that comes in and does all your prepackaged salads, grab-and-go items that you see in our cafés,” said Ponzi. “So, we’re pretty much 24 hours, seven days a week in here.”

Ponzi explained the MLK process last Friday. “So, everything’s been cooked, chilled, ready to go on Sunday,” he said. “First thing that’ll happen Saturday night, we’ll do the sweet potato pies. The bakers will start from scratch, make them, cool them, cut them and pre-store them.”

The sweet potato pies were stored in one of the 22 hot holding cabinets used during the event. The hot cabinets stand around five feet tall and keep food at the correct temperature before serving.

Pallets of prepared food waiting at the Commissary for delivery to the Dome. (Photo by Keone Weigl)

Six bakers continued their work through Saturday night, baking mini corn muffins as well as wheat and white dinner rolls. Normal production also happens overnight, each night, to ensure the freshest baked goods. All donuts hold to Dunkin Donuts specifications. All bagels are done from scratch. The same bakers will produce birthday cakes for people who order them through the SU Bookstore, Ponzi added.

Beginning Sunday at 7 a.m., banana pudding was cooked from scratch. “We’ll start with a mix, peel all the bananas, cut those up, fold the pudding into the cups, cover them. They go in the holding cabinets. The individual puddings will be delivered to the Dome on a truck no later than 1:30,” Ponzi said.

Meanwhile in the Cook-Chill facility, collard greens began to stew. “We’ll add all the seasonings. Those, I’ll let cook all day, just flavor,” said Ponzi. “Last thing of the day, before I head to the Dome, is we’ll empty this kettle. That’ll go in the pans. Everything gets Saran Wrapped. Boom. I’m ready to go.”

While this process was happening, a predetermined oven rotation schedule ensured all items were cooked and placed in hot holding cabinets by no later than 2:30 p.m. “They’re doing the creole beans and rice, oven rotation with the chicken with the ribs. They’re taking final temperatures, loading the hot boxes (cabinets),” said Ponzi.

A truck driver loaded the food into his truck. Ponzi followed him to the Dome and called ahead to have any available set of hands meet him at the loading dock. Food was unloaded and kept in a staging area.

In the week prior to the MLK celebration, 1,600 china place settings were retrieved from the rafters of the Commissary warehouse. The plates, flatware, cups and glasses are only used a couple times over the course of the year, Ponzi said. The place settings were all washed and organized onto 12 pallets. The pallets of flatware were delivered via box trucks to the Dome on Friday.

Tewksbury and Bracy work together to manage the front and back end operations at the Dome during the MLK celebration.

Starting on Thursday night, Tewksbury and his staff worked until around 1 a.m. breaking down concessions equipment after the men’s basketball game.

The next day, they set up 160 tables and 1,600 chairs on the Dome’s floor. Large bundles of linens were left on the tables for setup on Saturday.

Serving the meal at the MLK Celebration dinner Sunday night in the Dome. (Photo by Evan Jenkins)

While Tewksbury’s concessions department helps behind the scenes with the kitchen work and getting the equipment in and out of the building, Bracy manages the actual service of the dinner, setting the tables, serving the people and cleaning up.

Lisa Gasque, catering events manager, was at the Dome on Friday organizing to help make “setup on Saturday smooth, streamlined and efficient.”

“I have a crew here today that’s getting all the components ready,” she said. “Tomorrow I can assign jobs and everyone knows what they’re doing. Efficiency is the key right now.”

Setup typically lasts six to eight hours on Saturday, with staff covering tables with linens and placing flowers, Bracy explained. Buffet lines were also set up on Saturday. A student staff of more than 80 helped with setup, service and cleanup. In addition, more than 20 managers and supervisors joined more than 30 union staff, including truck drivers, cooks, prep staff and catering event helpers.

On Sunday, Gasque had organized staff into areas of responsibility.

“We have food runners, buffet servers, clearers,” said Gasque on Friday. “I have mapped it all out.”

Gasque also has a wide variety of experience with the MLK Celebration. “This is my sixth one. I’ve been through every phase of it, where I was just a worker, then a supervisor and now as a manager,” she said. “Last year was my first solo run as manager. It went great. But I learned simple little things, and now it’s a no-brainer.”

Once the program concluded, the staff set up a staging area to begin clearing plates.

“Once the program’s over, they turn the lights on, we’ll clear the floor in about 40 minutes,” Tewksbury predicted on Friday.

The Dome floor was reset for basketball on Sunday night.

The dirty dishes were palletized and brought back to the Commissary, and a crew worked overnight washing them. The dishes must be cleaned immediately because day-to-day equipment still needs to be cleaned as well, Ponzi explained. By then, they’re already preparing for the next big event.

Because, he stated, “You’re only as good as the last meal that you served.”

(Illustration by Amy McVey)

Comedian and author Trevor Noah addresses the audience during the 2019 Martin Luther King Jr. MLK Celebration Dinner. Jennifer Sanders, NewsChannel 9/WSYR-TV morning and noon news anchor, moderated a conversation with Noah.

The 2019 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration—featuring comedian and author Trevor Noah, host of the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning��—was held last night in the Dome.

The event also showcased performances by students and Central New York community members, and presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards—recognizing local community members who have championed the plight of those in need.

The 34th annual event was presented in collaboration with the series and the Syracuse Reads program.

View some of the memorable moments from the celebration.

Members of the Community Choir and the Black Celestial Choral Ensemble performed during the the 2019 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Trevor Noah at the 2019 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

Trevor Noah at the 2019 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

The Black Reign Step Team performed at the 2019 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Recipients of the 2019 Unsung Hero Award are honored at the 2019 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. From left are Amiah Crisler; Marissa Saunders; Mary Lynn Mahan, whose husband, Stephen Mahan, was honored posthumously; Priya Penner; and Syeisha Byrd.

The Adanfo Ensemble performed at the 2019 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Jackie Robinson was the master of ceremonies at the 2019 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

A member of the Adanfo Ensemble at the 2019 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

Children with the Southwest Community Center Higher Standards Camp performed at the 2019 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Trevor Noah at the 2019 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

A member of A New Generation Eternally Lifting Souls (A.N.G.E.L.S.) sings during the 2019 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Orange Appeal took the stage at the 2019 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Trevor Noah with Jennifer Sanders at the 2019 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

The theme of the 2019 MLK Celebration is “The Global Impact of Civil Rights.” As part of the program, Sanders and Noah will discuss “Born a Crime,” the life and legacy of Dr. King, and the worldwide��effect of the civil rights movement. The event also includes musical performances and presentation of Unsung Hero awards to five individuals.

The event begins at 5 p.m. with dinner near the Dome’s west end zone, followed by the main program from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the east side. The dinner is sold out. However, tickets for the program alone are still available ; in person at the Carrier Dome Box Office (Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.); and by phone (888-DOME-TIX or 315-443-2121, option “zero”). Tickets are $5 for Syracuse University students and youths, and $15 for University faculty/staff and the public.

Jackie Robinson

Jackie Robinson

After graduating from the Newhouse School, Robinson spent 35 years with WSTM-TV and CNY Central, first as a general assignment reporter and moving to weekend anchor and then primary news anchor—becoming the station’s first female African American anchor.

She has received numerous accolades, including induction into the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Silver Circle in 2016 and the New York State Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2012, the Syracuse University Chancellor’s Award for Outstanding Journalist and Syracuse University’s Woman of Distinction in 2011.

Robinson is recipient of The Governor’s Award for Outstanding African American of Distinction and was named a 1990 Syracuse Post-Standard Woman of Achievement. She has been honored with the Syracuse Press Club’s Career Achievement Award and been named to the organization’s Wall of Distinction. In addition, she has been recognized numerous times by The Associated Press, United Press International and Syracuse Press Club. She received an honorary doctorate from Cazenovia College.

Robinson has contributed to H.O.M.E. Inc.’s efforts to improve the lives of the developmentally disabled and the YWCA’s annual Diversity Award, and she is a participant in the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women campaign. Her other community service efforts have benefited Central New York Minority Network, the Syracuse Boys & Girls Club, the United Way of Central New York and Central Baptist Church of Syracuse.

Jennifer Sanders

Jennifer Sanders

Before joining Syracuse’s ABC affiliate, Sanders was a multi-media journalist at KXII-TV in Sherman, Texas, where she was responsible for shooting, writing and editing her news and sports stories.��She also hosted a weekly talk show called “Forum” in which she did in-depth coverage of key issues impacting people across Texas and Oklahoma. Prior to that, she was a writer/web producer at KDAF-TV in Dallas-Fort Worth. She started her journalism career in newspaper and radio in Seguin, Texas.

Sanders is the founder of Beyond Your Lens Inc., a nonprofit that provides students hands-on education, exposure and financial assistance to become well-trained journalists in the evolving world of television and digital news. Throughout the school year, she travels to various schools and universities, hosting workshops and lecturing about the importance of journalism and how to have a successful career in news.

She works with children and teens through the Syracuse City School District mentoring program and other advisory councils in the district. She also sits on the board of directors of Vera House Inc. and the board of GEAUX Lead Inc., an organization that improves the lives of marginalized youth through various service initiatives.

A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and The Links Inc.—two organizations committed to service—Sanders earned a bachelor’s degree in mass communications/Spanish at Texas Lutheran University and a master’s degree in journalism at the University of North Texas.

Trevor Noah and “Born a Crime”

Trevor Noah

Noah is host of the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning on Comedy Central. He joined the program in 2014 as a contributor and took over as host of the show in September 2015, upon Jon Stewart’s retirement. He began his career as a comedian, presenter and actor in his native South Africa in 2002 and through his television roles and stand-up tours became the most popular comedian in Africa.

In “Born a Crime” (Random House, 2016), Noah, who was born in Johannesburg in 1984 to a black South African mother and a white European father, recounts his childhood growing up during the last days of apartheid and the opportunities and adventures with his mother in the tumultuous days of freedom that followed.

Noah’s acclaimed memoir was the selected book for the 2018-19 Syracuse Reads program, a shared reading initiative that is part of the First-Year Experience for all new Syracuse University students. The University provided more than 3,900 special softcover copies and e-copies of the book to incoming first-year and transfer students last summer.

After their arrival on campus for the fall semester, the students participated in a series of five-week discussion sessions—co-led by a student peer facilitator and a faculty, staff or graduate student lead facilitator—intended to enhance the students’ understanding of the topics addressed in the book and engage them in broader contexts about identity, resiliency, inclusion and community.

In addition, free copies of “Born a Crime” were made available through the SU Bookstore to other current students, SU faculty and staff with a valid SU I.D. Also, Central New York were encouraged to read the book as part of the initiative.

About the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

The MLK Celebration is the largest university-sponsored event in the nation to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King. By celebrating Dr. King each year, Syracuse University honors the values that he epitomized: courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, humility and service.

The MLK Celebration is presented by Hendricks Chapel in collaboration with the University Lectures, the Syracuse Reads Program and media partner WAER. For more information, visit .

The dialogue, on “Can Anyone Be Born a Crime?” will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Noble Room of Hendricks Chapel. The two-hour gathering will include a shared meal (begins at 5:30 p.m.), facilitated dialogue and two times of mindful meditation (at the beginning and the end). The dialogue will be co-facilitated by chaplains, staff and students.

The Interfaith Dialogue Dinner Series is free and open to the public. No R.S.V.P. is necessary. American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and inclusive food will be provided. Requests for accommodations or food queries should be made in advance by contacting chapel@syr.edu.

The discussion will explore Noah’s book through the lenses of religion and spirituality, identity and belonging, and connections between South Africa and the United States. Noah will be the keynote speaker for the University’s annual which will be held on Sunday, Jan. 27, at 7 p.m. in the Carrier Dome.

“The Interfaith Dinner Dialogue Series is intended to be a direct expression of Syracuse University’s commitment to fostering and supporting an inclusive, accessible campus community of opportunity for a richly diverse student body. To host a discussion of Trevor Noah’s book just days before he visits our campus is quite exciting, and the entire 2019 Spring Series will provide meaningful and memorable learning for all participants,” says the Rev. Brian Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel. “Once again, we will be shown how an education informed by multiple points of view, life experiences, ethnicities, cultures, abilities and belief systems is essential to academic excellence.”

The “Common and Diverse Ground” series is co-sponsored by Hendricks Chapel, the Office of Interdisciplinary Programs and Outreach in the Burton Blatt Institute and the Disability Cultural Center, and for several years has brought members of the campus community together in an inclusive environment to explore challenging contemporary issues.

“It remains a privilege to collaborate with Jikyo Bonnie Shoultz and my colleagues in Hendricks Chapel, the Disability Cultural Center and elsewhere on campus to continue this ongoing series, aiming to create spaces wherein students, faculty, staff, chaplains and members of the local community can come together and interact deeply about timely and sometimes tough subjects,” says Diane Wiener, research professor and associate director of interdisciplinary programs and outreach in the Burton Blatt Institute.

“Sharing meals that include Kosher, Halal, vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free and other options; assuring that American Sign Language interpretation is provided, as a matter of course; and mindfulness meditation regularly happening, to center ourselves, prior to and after each dialogue, are all recognizable facets of the series,” Wiener says. “Two of my favorite aspects are bearing witness—and not just visually—to the spontaneous coalescing of brave energies, sometimes in a room of strangers, who may leave with new friends, and experiencing the powerful, expert leadership of students as co-facilitators working closely with chaplains, faculty and staff.”

The other dinner dialogues this semester are:

• Thursday, Feb. 28—“On Disability, Forgiveness, Animals and Faith”
• Thursday, March 28—“Interfaith Responses to Sexual and Relationship Violence”

For more information on the event, contact Hendricks Chapel at 315.443.2901 or chapel@syr.edu.

The awards are bestowed annually on people who, in the spirit of King’s “beloved community,” have made a positive difference in the lives of others, but who are not widely recognized for their efforts. The categories include community member, student, faculty and staff.

This year’s recipients will be honored at the , to be held this year on Sunday, Jan. 27, at 7 p.m. in the Carrier Dome under its theme “The Global Impact of Civil Rights.” The celebration is the largest of its kind on a college campus and features performances, dinner and a conversations with Trevor Noah, host of “The Daily Show” and author of “Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood.”

Tickets—$15 for SU staff, SU faculty and the general public; $5 for students—may be purchased , in person at the Dome Box Office (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) and by phone (888-DOME-TIX or 315.443.2121, option “zero”).

This year’s Unsung Hero recipients are:

Syracuse University Staff
Syeisha Byrd

Syeisha Byrd is a force of nature. Her energy, compassion, creativity and commitment to creating a positive impact, and to nurturing the same commitment in students, changes lives.

Growing up on the lower west side of Syracuse, Byrd was so distressed watching many of her friends drop out of school or lose their lives to gang violence that she vowed to commit her life to confronting these issues by working with local youth. Toward that goal, she spent 16 years working with youth through the Boys & Girls Clubs of Syracuse.

In her role as director of the Office of Engagement Programs at Syracuse University’s Hendricks Chapel, Byrd builds relationships and engages students from all over campus, encouraging them to get involved in the broader community. She creates and develops programming for student volunteers to help combat whatever problems need to be addressed in the community—everything from reducing gang violence to mentoring refugees. While doing so (and raising four children), Byrd also completed a master’s degree in social work at the University in 2012.

One of Byrd’s goals is to build sustainable programs that give students the opportunity to give back to the community and teach them how to create their own programs and lobby for social change. She has spearheaded programs such as a social entrepreneurship impact hour, where she mentored students interested in making a social impact through their entrepreneurial work, and Thanksgiving and Christmas donations—including Angel Stockings—partnering with numerous campus and community organizations. She has recently taken a leading role with Hendricks Chapel’s food pantry; she works with colleagues in Hendricks Chapel and partners with food studies students as well as the local University United Methodist Food Pantry to better understand food insecurity and students’ needs.

Byrd’s commitment to her community extends well beyond campus. She has taught crocheting to individuals recovering from addictions at Syracuse Behavioral Health Care and served on the advisory board of the Center for New Americans to help refugees from Somalia and Bhutan settle into their new lives in Syracuse. She sits on the boards of Home Headquarters Inc. and the Near Westside Initiative.

“Syeisha believes she can change the world and bring everyone along with her,” says Pamela Kirwin Heintz, SU associate vice president and director of the Mary Ann Shaw Center for Public and Community Service. “Working with Syeisha is like letting sunshine into the dark places.”

“When you think of an unsung hero, Syeisha comes to mind.��Not only does she embody the words that Dr. King has instilled in us to continue contributing to world peace through freedom and social justice, she is a phenomenal woman,” says Marissa Willingham, program associate in the Office of Multicultural Affairs and a member of the Unsung Hero selection committee. “She is very passionate about the work that she does to enrich the lives of her children and the many others she touches on and off campus.��She is the essence of what it means to give back and put others before herself.”

Community Student
Amiah Crisler

Artist Amiah Crisler, 11, normally works with oil and acrylic paints when she’s painting at home. But when the annual Street Painting Festival rolls around each summer, she trades her paintbrushes for chalk in soft pastels.

Crisler’s sidewalk work has stunned those attending the downtown Syracuse festival for two years in a row. Last July, she drew a vibrant, abstract picture of a dog. Her mother, Kelly, posted photos on Facebook every step of the process. Within the hour, the post went viral, and it has been shared more than 71,000 times. Crisler won first place for her age group and the People’s Choice Award in the street painting competition. It was her second year in a row that she won; she drew an elaborate peacock last year.

“I really wanted people to see my artwork,” Crisler says. “I want younger kids to explore their natural talents…I believe every house deserves art.”

Crisler attends Ed Smith School in Syracuse, where her favorite subject is art. She also takes classes at Shades of Orange Art Studio, where her teacher calls her “a free spirit.” She is interested in being an obstetrician-gynecologist, but is also considering a career as an entrepreneur so she can open a store called “Artsy Things.” “Not really like Michael’s, where they have knitting,” she says. “This would focus on painting, with high-quality brushes and paints.”

Syracuse University Faculty
Stephen Mahan

Stephen Mahan was a member of the faculty of the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) and director of the University’s��nationally acclaimed Photography and Literacy (PAL) Project for more than 10 years when he died unexpectedly in a motor vehicle accident in July 2018.

��Through the PAL project—a collaboration among the transmedia department in VPA, the Coalition of Museum and Art Centers (CMAC) and the Syracuse City School District—Mahan created a learning environment in which Syracuse University students��helped students from the school district to improve their literacy skills through photography.

Mahan was affiliated with Light Work/Community Darkrooms for more than 30 years. He received a Light Work grant, had his work included in several exhibitions, and served on Light Work’s board of directors for nearly a decade.

“The thing I admired and envied most about Stephen was his unbridled enthusiasm to make the world a better place by encouraging people to tap the creative voice within, that keeps us all connected yet makes us all unique,” says Jeff Hoone, executive director of CMAC, who nominated Mahan for the award. “Photography was the magic that connected Stephen to so many people.”

The roots of the PAL Project were planted when Mahan began helping his wife, Mary Lynn, teach better literacy skills through photography to her students at Ed Smith School. “Those first magnetic steps that connected Stephen to youngsters through photography and literacy was the start of a journey that defined and enriched a good portion of the rest of his life’s work,” Hoone says.

Those first classes grew into an exceptional learning environment fostered by the transmedia department and VPA faculty member Doug Dubois. Students shared and celebrated differences while discovering their common potential through photography, writing, music and more. “Stephen brought a level of dedication and passion to running the program that is only found in the soul of true believers who know there is potential to make the world a better place by reaching out to others with a common measure of respect and a common purpose of renewal,” Hoone says.

Syracuse University Student
Priya Penner

As a first-year student on the Syracuse University campus, Priya Penner two years ago quickly became a strong advocate for all students with��marginalized identities.��And she hasn’t stopped.

A junior majoring in political science in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and the College of Arts and Sciences and citizenship and civic engagement in the Maxwell School, Penner is the current president of the Disability Student Union.��She is also a work-study student at the Disability Cultural Center (DCC).

“Priya consistently works hard here at the University to recruit students to the Disability Student Union,” says Kate Pollack, DCC coordinator. “She is able to get people to sign up and join in. She is just a natural at it, and a lot of people want to become involved because of Priya.”

She has been associated with ADAPT, a disability rights organization, since she was 15. At the University, Penner organized an annual Disability Day of Mourning, a vigil and ceremony to honor and remember people with disabilities who were murdered by their families or caregivers.��She has been involved with many other activities and educational programs aimed at raising awareness about and striving for disability justice.

Diane Wiener, research professor and associate director of interdisciplinary programs and outreach at the Burton Blatt Institute, and former director of the DCC, says Penner is an ally in an array of different spaces on campus.

“As a feminist and young woman who self-identifies as disabled, as queer and as a person of color who was a transnational adoptee, Priya embodies, literally and figuratively, all of the different ways that we think of Dr. King’s legacy in relation to what is now oftentimes referred to as intersectional social justice, because she moves through the world and imagines the possibilities it has to actually be inclusive and accessible to all different people who move through that world ourselves,” Wiener says.

Both Pollack and Wiener say that Penner’s personality instantly puts others at ease. “When I specifically reflect on Dr. King’s devotion to youth and young adults and wanting to bring people up through the movement in various ways, I think Priya has what I would call noncondescending awareness of her own power, with humility,” Wiener says. “In many respects, her valuation of Dr. King’s legacy is so innate in her, and is something she has cultivated so deeply, it’s hard to describe.

“She is one of the people I think of when I imagine having hope for the future,” says Wiener.

Community Member
Marissa Saunders

Marissa Saunders is director of community engagement for Syracuse and Rochester and justice strategies associate at the Center for Community Alternatives (CCA). “Marissa says, ‘this is HEART work.’ No one embodies this better than her. Few have the heart for this work as she does,” says her CCA colleague Kelly Gonzalez.

In her role, Saunders has had a transformative impact on her colleagues, the families and individuals she serves, and the Syracuse community at large. At CCA, she developed the Transition Coach Program, an innovative program that serves young people returning to mainstream school after long-term suspension, juvenile detention/placement or incarceration.

In the community, she founded and facilitates Nurturing Individuals Abilities (NIA) Ministries, a woman’s empowerment and transitional support program and curriculum for incarcerated women and formerly incarcerated individuals in Onondaga County. She helps people who have survived trauma to find their strength, their resilience, their voice and their capacity to be their own hero. Her mantra, “Be the person you needed or had during the darkest times in your life,” is what fuels her passion to do the “heart” work with the dedication and effectiveness she brings to the table.

Saunders consistently champions the underrepresented and underserved. In an agency with diverse direct-service programs and multiple advocacy projects, she raised attention to the needs of young women in the community who are victims of sex trafficking and exploitation. As someone who sees the need and her community as global, Saunders has brought her work to women and young girls engaged in domestic and sexual abuse in Jamaica and Uganda. And this year she is expanding her efforts to parts of Kenya, with the future goal of working in Ghana as well.

Saunders’ impact in combatting racism and fighting for equity is also evident in the cultural competency curriculum “Planting a Tree of Diversity” she developed and currently uses for the Gifford Foundation’s Nourishing Tomorrow’s Leaders Training.

“As someone who brings her own rich lived experience to every aspect of the work, she can see herself in the struggles of our clients—those who struggle to escape abuse, to maintain safe shelter, to rise out of desperation,” Gonzalez says. “Marissa shines as an example of what cannot be taught in a textbook. She demonstrates what must be learned by having an open heart, a curious mind, a spiritual compass and a resilient determination that we will, together, bend the arc towards justice, one small act of courage at a time.”

The MLK Celebration is a night of dynamic entertainment and inspirational presentations of the Unsung Hero Awards, which recognizes local community members, faculty, staff and students who—like Dr. King—champion the plight of those in need. This year’s celebration features Trevor Noah, author, comedian and host of the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning “The Daily Show.”

Auditions are open to all composers, dancers, instrumentalists, poets, singers and other creators and artists. For those interested in this opportunity to light up the stage in celebration of Dr. King, sign up to audition at .

The Unsung Hero Award celebrates individuals or community groups who exemplify the spirit, life and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. but have not received widespread recognition for or been previously honored for their efforts. To nominate someone who makes their world a better place, visit .

For more information and to purchase event tickets, visit , or contact the Office of Special Events at specialevents@syr.edu.

Every year since 2001, CNY Reads One Book picks a single book title to distribute throughout the area in hopes of catalyzing dialogue among community members of all walks of life. This year, through a partnership with the University, the organization has chosen “Born a Crime.”

Working with SU’s Office of Community Engagement, more than 100 copies are circulating in the Onondaga County Public Library System and 65 more books will be used as library giveaways with “Read this book and pass it on” stickers on the covers. In addition to the Onondaga County Public Library System, nine other libraries or book clubs have received memoirs through the partnership.

“This collaboration with CNY Reads One Book is exciting. A completely volunteer-based organization, CNY Reads One Book serves with the fundamental goal of providing Central New York a shared experience and dialogue,” says Bea González, vice president of community engagement. “This partnership gives Syracuse University the opportunity to be partners in that mission and provide support, further bridging campus and community.”

González has also been working with other community organizations interested in distributing “Born A Crime,” including the Upward Bound Program at Le Moyne College and the Shonnard Street Boys and Girls Club. Jaime Alicea, superintendent of the Syracuse City School District (SCSD), has started a reading circle around “Born a Crime” with his superintendent’s cabinet—a group of students representing each school in the district. The cabinet will be hosted at the in January.

University community members who want to donate their copy of “Born a Crime” may drop off the book at 235 Schine Student Center or 304 Steel Hall. Students, faculty and staff who have not yet obtained their free copy of “Born a Crime” should go to the third-floor service counter of the SU Bookstore and present their SUID.

Dinner/program tickets for the MLK Celebration are sold out. Program-only tickets are $5 for students and $15 for SU staff, SU faculty and the general public. Tickets may be purchased , in person at the Dome Box Office (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) and by phone (888-DOME-TIX or 315.443.2121, option “zero”).

Due to the high demand for tickets for this event, all tickets for the $30 combined dinner (5 to 6:30 p.m.) and main program (7 to 8:30 p.m.) option have sold out. Tickets for the main program alone are still available and may be purchased , in person at the Dome Box Office (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) and by phone (888-DOME-TIX or 315.443.2121, option “zero”).

Program-only tickets are $15 for SU staff, SU faculty and the general public; $5 for students.

The program includes a conversation with Noah, talking about his acclaimed memoir, (Random House, 2016); reflecting on the life and legacy of Dr. King; and discussing the global impact of the civil rights movement. Plus, there will be performances by students and Central New York community members, and presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards—recognizing local community members who have championed the plight of those in need.

A new event format for this year, designed to accommodate increased attendance, includes the dinner from 5 to 6:30 p.m., followed by the separate main program from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Those who have purchased the “Dinner and Program” combined option will be seated in the west end zone during the dinner and then guided to a reserved section at the east side for the main program. See below.

The 34th annual event is presented in collaboration with the series and the Syracuse Reads program.

For more information on the MLK Celebration, visit .

This diagram shows the event floor plan. The sections highlighted in yellow indicate where all attendees are seated for the main program. The blue circles indicate dinner tables. All dinner attendees will be moved to a reserved section for the main program following the conclusion of the dinner.

Trevor Noah

Tickets are now available for the 2019 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration—featuring comedian and author Trevor Noah, host of the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning —on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019, in the Dome.

This year’s theme for the MLK Celebration, the nation’s largest university-sponsored celebration of Dr. King’s life and legacy, is “The Global Impact of Civil Rights.” Noah will take part in an on-stage conversation about his acclaimed memoir, (Random House, 2016), reflecting on Dr. King and discussing the global impact of the civil rights movement.

The 34th annual event—presented in collaboration with the series and the Syracuse Reads program—also includes a dinner; performances by students and Central New York community members; and presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards, recognizing local community members who have championed the rights of those in need. Dinner will take place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. near the Dome’s west end zone, followed by the main program from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the east side.

Following are the various ticket purchase options:

• SU staff, SU faculty and General Public (Dinner and Program): $30
• SU staff, SU faculty and General Public (Main Program Only): $15
• Students (Dinner and Program): $15
• Students (Main Program Only): $5

Tickets are available , in person at the Dome Box Office (Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) and by phone (888-DOME-TIX or 315.443.2121, option “zero”).

After Jan. 14, 2019, student tickets for the dinner and program may also be obtained with the��option of one meal deduction or $15 SUpercard Food at all dining centers and Schine Dining.

Noah’s “Born a Crime” is the selected book for the 2018-19 Syracuse Reads program, a shared reading initiative coordinated by the Provost’s Office that is part of the First-Year Experience for all new SU students. The University provided more than 3,900 special softcover copies and e-copies of the book to these incoming first-year and transfer students in June. Free copies of “Born a Crime” were also made available through the SU Bookstore to other current students, as well as SU faculty and staff with a valid SUID.

The new students were instructed to read “Born a Crime” over the summer. After their arrival on campus for the fall semester, they have participated in a series of five-week discussion sessions—co-led by a student peer facilitator and a faculty, staff or graduate student lead facilitator—intended to enhance the students’ understanding of the topics addressed in the book and engage them in broader contexts about identity, resiliency, inclusion and community.

The book will also be utilized for “CNY Reads”—one of the largest “one book, one community” programs in New York state—from January through March 2019. By encouraging Central New York residents to read the same book and engage in experiences related to the subject matter of the book, the 2019 CNY Reads program seeks to cultivate a culture of community building and programing while celebrating the written word.

The MLK Celebration offers all who have read the book—and who will read the book—a special opportunity to see and hear the author live and in person.

For more information on Noah and the Syracuse Reads program, see the MLK Celebration speaker announcement.

To learn more about the MLK Celebration, visit .

In addition to the first-year and transfer students who received a copy this summer, nearly 8,000 copies have already been distributed to students, faculty and staff within our community. There is still time to secure your copy before we welcome Trevor Noah for the 2019 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration in January, in collaboration with the University Lectures series.

To obtain your free copy, visit the Customer Service Desk on the third floor of the Bookstore and present your valid SUID.

Trevor Noah

Comedian and author Trevor Noah, host of the Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning on Comedy Central, will visit Syracuse University in late January 2019 as a special guest of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, in collaboration with the University Lectures series.

Syracuse University’s 34th annual —the largest event of its kind in the country—will take place on Sunday, Jan. 27, in the Carrier Dome. Noah will take part in an on-stage conversation, talking about his acclaimed memoir, (Random House, 2016), reflecting on the life and legacy of Dr. King, and discussing the global impact of the civil rights movement. Further details of the event will be announced later in the fall.

“Not only is Trevor Noah a popular television personality and the most successful comedian in South African history, his recent and renowned text has proven to be informative, formative and deeply transformative,” says the Rev. Brian E. Konkol, dean of Hendricks Chapel and co-chair of the 2019 MLK Celebration. “By showing the connections among Soweto, Selma and Syracuse at our 2019 MLK Celebration, we will recognize the global impact of the civil rights movement and consider how we, too, may receive the freedom to flourish as citizens of the world.”

“Born a Crime” is the selected book for the 2018-19 Syracuse Reads Program, a shared reading initiative coordinated by the Provost’s Office that is part of the First-Year Experience for all new SU students. The initiative aims to engage students in a shared experience that explores themes of identity, belonging, diversity, inclusion, and health and wellness.

In the book, Noah, who was born in South Africa to a black South African mother and a white European father, recounts his childhood growing up during the last days of apartheid and the opportunities and adventures with his mother in the period that followed.

The University provided more than 3,900 special softcover copies and e-copies of the book to all incoming first-year and transfer students in June. The students were instructed to read “Born a Crime” over the summer. After their arrival on campus for the fall semester, the students will participate in a series of five-week discussion sessions—co-led by a student peer facilitator and a faculty, staff or graduate student lead facilitator—intended to enhance the students’ understanding of the topics addressed in the book and engage them in broader contexts about identity, resiliency, inclusion and community.

Free copies of “Born a Crime” have also been made available through the SU Bookstore to current students, faculty and staff with a valid SUID, and individuals have been encouraged to host their own discussions or book club readings about the book.

“Trevor Noah’s book provides a foundation for the critical topics of identity, belonging and inclusion that all college students can and should examine,” says Amanda G. Nicholson, assistant provost, dean of student success and co-chair of the First-Year Experience Initiative. “To hear from him firsthand will be a truly meaningful opportunity to explore difficult themes from a global perspective and continue our shared campus conversation through the First-Year Experience around those themes.”

“We are thrilled to host Trevor Noah, who will share his experiences and reflections with our students and the entire campus community as we continue to build a more welcoming, inclusive community,” says Kira Kristal Reed, provost faculty fellow, associate professor in the Whitman School and co-chair of the First-Year Experience Initiative. “His appearance will enhance the First-Year Experience as we engage in a shared reading and discussions, and wellness opportunities throughout the fall, and conclude with the MLK celebration.”

Noah is the most successful comedian in Africa. He joined “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart” in 2014 as a contributor and took over as host of the show in September 2015, upon Stewart’s retirement.

He was named one of “The 35 Most Powerful People in New York Media” by The Hollywood Reporter in 2017 and 2018, and Time magazine named him to its Time 100, an annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world,” for 2018.

Born in Johannesburg in 1984, Noah began his career as a comedian, presenter and actor in his native South Africa in 2002. He held several television hosting roles with the South African Broadcasting Corp. and performed in stand-up comedy tours across South Africa. He was creator and host of “Tonight with Trevor Noah” from 2010 until 2011, when he relocated to the United States.

On Jan. 6, 2012, Noah became the first South African stand-up comedian to appear on “The Tonight Show.” In May 2013, he had the same distinction appearing on “The Late Show with David Letterman.”

Noah was the subject of the award-winning 2012 documentary “You Laugh But It’s True,” which tells the story of his remarkable career in post-apartheid South Africa. That same year, he starred in the one-man comedy show “Trevor Noah: The Racist,” which was based on his similarly titled South African special, “That’s Racist.” His Showtime comedy special “Trevor Noah: African American” premiered in 2013. He recorded the stand-up special “Trevor Noah: Lost in Translation” for Comedy Central in 2015 and debuted his ninth comedy special, “Trevor Noah: Afraid of the Dark,” on Netflix in 2017.

In his time as host of “The Daily Show,” both he and the program have won numerous honors, including a Writers Guild of America Award, a Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Award, a GLAAD Media Award, an MTV Movie & TV Award and a Primetime Emmy Award, all in 2017. “The Daily Show” has been nominated for several awards in 2018, including three Primetime Emmys: for Outstanding Variety Talk Series, Outstanding Interactive Program and Outstanding Short Form Variety Series; the 70th Primetime Emmy Awards will be broadcast on NBC on Sept. 17.

In 2016, Noah released “Born a Crime,” his first book, which was an immediate New York Times bestseller. Additionally, his performance on the “ was Audible’s highest rated audiobook of 2016, and it has remained one of the top selling titles on Audible since its release. It was also nominated for two NAACP Image Awards, one for Outstanding Literary Work by a Debut Author and another for Outstanding Literary Work in the Biography/Auto-Biography category.

The book is a collection of personal stories about growing up in South Africa during the last gasps of apartheid and the tumultuous days of freedom that came with its demise. Already known for his incisive social and political commentary, Noah with the book turns his focus inward, giving readers an intimate look at the world that shaped him.

He shares true stories, sometimes dark, occasionally bizarre, frequently tender, and often hilarious: from subsisting on caterpillars during months of extreme poverty to making comically hapless attempts at teenage romance to the occasion he was thrown in jail to the time he was tossed from a speeding car driven by murderous gangsters.

ABOUT THE FIRST-YEAR EXPERIENCE

For the 2018-19 academic year, the First-Year Experience is focused on three core areas: anchor courses within each school or college; a shared reading and discussion experience with peers, faculty and staff; and health and wellness activities. These three areas aim to build community, improve cross-cultural skills and increase practices of healthy habits for first-year and transfer students. With the selection of Trevor Noah’s memoir, “Born a Crime,” the shared reading is meant for new students—and the entire University community—to engage in a common experience and explore themes of identity, belonging, wellness, diversity and inclusion.

ABOUT THE MLK CELEBRATION

Syracuse University’s celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is the largest event of its kind on a college campus. The 34thannual event will take place on Sunday, Jan. 27, in the Carrier Dome. The event got its start before Congress acted to recognize Dr. King with a federal holiday honoring his memory and accomplishments. Syracuse University’s celebration includes student and community entertainment, dinner and presentation of the Unsung Hero Awards, which recognize local community members who have championed the plight of those in need.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY LECTURES

The is Syracuse University’s premier speaker series, with a long and distinguished history of showcasing individuals of exceptional accomplishment who share their talents, experiences and perspectives for the enjoyment of SU students/faculty/staff and the Central New York community. Now entering its 18th year, the cross-disciplinary series was created through, and is supported by, the generosity of alumnus Robert B. Menschel ’51.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. (Photo courtesy of the AP Image Archive)

Hendricks Chapel, in partnership with Chancellor Kent Syverud and Dr. Ruth Chen, will host a plaque dedication and unveiling honoring the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 4—a day that also marks the 50^th anniversary of the civil rights leader’s assassination.

The program, which will take place in the Shaffer Art Building Galleria, pays tribute to Dr. King and to the July 15, 1965, visit he made to campus to speak on “The Role of Education in the Civil Rights Movement.” The plaque dedication will take place near the location where King spoke, at what was then Sims Dining Hall.

“Dr. King’s visit to Syracuse came at a pivotal time in the history of the country and the Civil Rights Movement,” says Chancellor Syverud. “It was just a few weeks after that visit that President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act into law. This plaque is a testament to Dr. King’s faithful pursuit of justice, and it affirms the University’s own commitment to access and opportunity for all.”

Dean of Hendricks Chapel Brian E. Konkol will preside over the program, which will feature remarks by Chancellor Syverud and Special Assistant to the Chancellor Barry L. Wells. It will conclude with the plaque unveiling and a short musical number by Jose “Peppie” Calvar, assistant professor of music and assistant director of choral activities at the Setnor School of Music.

“Although this commemoration of Dr. King’s assassination is difficult and challenging for many people both here and abroad, the King family has advised us to keep hope alive because King himself, even in the most troublesome times, always had faith in humankind,” Wells says. “So let us be strengthened by his example and teachings and use this occasion to renew our commitment to his radical purpose and power.”

King was assassinated on the evening of April 4, 1968, at the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee, while visiting the city to support striking sanitation workers.

In addition to the plaque ceremony, the University will toll the Crouse College Chimes 39 times starting at 7:05 p.m. Wednesday evening. The tolling is in response to a call from the National Civil Rights Museum for places of worship, colleges, universities and other institutions nationwide to toll their bells 39 times in honor of the years King spent on Earth and to pay homage to his legacy.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Realtime Translation (CART) will be provided for the plaque dedication. For requests relating to accessibility and accommodations, please contact the Equal Opportunity, Inclusion and Resolution Services office at 315.443.4018.

For more information on the program, email Hendricks Chapel at chapel@syr.edu or call 315.443.2901. To watch video footage of King’s funeral, which took place on April 9, 1968, visit the C-Span website.

“It’s an honor to be named as the keynote speaker for this event,” says Martinez, “primarily because of the man who we gather to honor, but also, because of the large number of people from all walks of life who will be there to honor Dr. King.”

Martinez was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, and raised in Dalton, Georgia. He joined the Army after high school and was deployed to Iraq in 2003. A month into his tour he, along with three other soldiers, were badly burned in a roadside explosion. During his recovery, a nurse asked him to speak to a burn patient, who had just seen his body for the first time and had become withdrawn. For Martinez, it was a life changing moment. After a brief visit, he realized that he had a positive impact on this patient and decided to use his own experiences to help others. He continued to visit patients every day, sharing his story and listening to theirs. He learned that inspiration is often a two-way street.

Martinez has since become a motivational speaker, traveling the world to spread a message of resilience and optimism. Martinez’s story captured the attention of producers on the Emmy Award-winning daytime drama “All My Children,” where he played a role he was familiar with: as a wounded veteran returning home to face the many challenges of civilian life. More recently, Martinez showed his dancing skills, winning the Mirrorball Trophy as part of the “Dancing with the Stars” program. He’s appeared on TV shows, including “Oprah,” “60 Minutes,” “The Tonight Show,” “Good Morning America” and on Univision. His story was told in the New York Times, and he was also named one of People’s “Most Intriguing People” of 2011. Martinez is also the author of the New York Times bestselling book, “Full of Heart: My Story of Survival, Strength, and Spirit,” a memoir about how he was able to take his personal tragedy and turn it into an inspiration for others. He’s also serves as a spokesperson for a number of organizations, including Operation Finally Home and the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors.

According to 2017 Celebration Chairwoman Ajajielle Brown, “to have a motivational voice and Army veteran serve as our main speaker, the honor is truly ours. J.R.’s story is one that should serve as an inspiration to us all. He helps to lift voices and spirits, and more to the point, shows that what’s inside a person is what counts.”

Martinez will be the featured speaker, but the celebration includes more than the event at the Carrier Dome. It’s a weekend filled with activities and community-wide involvement organized by the City of Syracuse, the University and the MLK committee. On Saturday, Jan. 28, a community event will be held at Nottingham High School. The community event includes a day of educational workshops and recreational activities, as well as an awards ceremony for K-12 students.

On Sunday, Jan. 29, dinner precedes the program at 4:30 p.m., with doors opening at 4 p.m. Tickets go on sale beginning Nov. 1. For employees, staff and the general public, tickets will be sold through the Schine Box Office, and are available on an individual basis ($30) or in blocks of 10 ($300). Cash, credit or interdepartmental I.D. may be used. All tickets are for general seating. Student tickets are $15 and can be purchased through a meal plan at dining halls. Students without a meal plan can purchase at the Schine Box Office as well.

The evening program, which includes an address by Martinez, the presentation of the 2017 Unsung Hero Awards, music by a community choir and entertainment by student performers, begins at 5:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public. For questions, call Hendricks Chapel at 315-443-5044.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Real-Time (CART) will be available at the event. To request dietary or other accommodations, contact Ginny Yerdon at Hendricks Chapel at 315-443-2901 or gyerdon@syr.edu.

For more information on the 32nd annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. celebration, check .

The Race Card Project was created by National Public Radio special correspondent Michele Norris as a way to foster dialogue. Through the project, individuals are invited to construct and submit six-word essays on the subject of race that describes their thoughts, feelings, observations and/or experiences.

Members of the University community can submit their six-word essays at . Essays will be incorporated into the program for the 2015 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, “Remember. Celebrate. Act.,” which will take place on Sunday, Jan. 18, 2015, at 5:30 p.m. in the Carrier Dome. Norris will be the keynote speaker for the celebration.

Tickets for the dinner, which precedes the program at 4:30 p.m., are now on sale. Tables ($300) and individual tickets ($30) for the general public are available by contacting Ginny Yerdon at Hendricks Chapel at 315-443-5044 or gyerdon@syr.edu.

Student tickets are $15 for students without meal plans and one dinner charge for students with meal plans. Student tickets will also go on sale Dec. 1 and will be available at all residence hall main desks, at dining centers during meal times, at Hendricks Chapel and online at (click on student tab) until Jan. 5.

For questions, call Hendricks Chapel at 315-443-5044.

American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation and Communication Access Real-Time will be available at the event. To request dietary or other accommodations, contact Ginny Yerdon at Hendricks Chapel at 315-443-2901 or gyerdon@syr.edu by Monday, Jan. 12.