“From Dreamers to Doers: How Ordinary People Shape Extraordinary Movements”
Wiley University invites students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community friends to join us as we honor the life, legacy, and leadership of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through a week of commemorative programs centered on service, reflection, dialogue, and action.
View the full schedule below and join us throughout the week.
(Most events are open to the campus community. See individual listings for details.)
Full Schedule of Events
Thursday, January 15–Friday, January 30, 2026
Wiley University Institutional Saga in Motion Exhibit
A visual representation of the Civil Rights Movement
Location: Thomas W. Cole, Sr. Library (during operating hours)
Explore a special exhibit highlighting pivotal moments of the Civil Rights Movement and the enduring power of collective action.
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Saturday, January 17, 2026 | 6:00 PM
Called to Lead: Selma Viewing and Alumni Voices
Location: Julius S. Scott, Sr. Chapel
Join us for a screening of Selma followed by alumni reflections and discussion on leadership, courage, and continuing the work.
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Sunday, January 18, 2026
One Night in Marshall: A Scholar, Leader, Debater, Activist, Vocalist, Athlete
Inspired by One Night in Miami (Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, Jim Brown, and Sam Cooke)
Location: President’s House
Attendance: By invitation only
A special invitation-only evening experience centered on identity, purpose, and leadership—Wiley University style.
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Monday, January 19, 2026 | 1:00 PM
Wiley University Teach-In
Theme: “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. gave us the dream… our generation must continue the work.”
Location: Fred T. Long, Sr. Ballroom
Lunch: Provided
A campus teach-in designed to connect Dr. King’s legacy to today’s challenges and opportunities—equipping participants to continue the work with intention.
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Tuesday, January 20, 2026 | 11:00 AM
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Chapel Program
Theme: The Fierce Urgency of Now: Race, Justice, and Moral Leadership in a Fractured World
Location: Julius S. Scott, Sr. Chapel
A chapel program focused on moral leadership and the urgency of action—rooted in Dr. King’s call to justice and beloved community.
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Wednesday, January 21, 2026 | 6:30 PM
Documentary, Dialogue, and Dinner
Featuring: The Good Fight: James Farmer Remembers the Civil Rights Movement
Location: Student Union Ballroom (Fred T. Long)
Join us for an evening of documentary viewing, guided discussion, and community dinner as we reflect on the movement and its lessons for today.
Presented By
Programs are presented by the Wiley University Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Events Committee, the Student Government Association, Alumni Affairs, The Great Debaters of the Melvin Tolson–Denzel Washington Forensic Society, the Alpha Sigma Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc., and the Office of the President.
