51Ç鱨վ will hold its 37th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Observance on Feb. 28 to culminate the University's celebration of Black History Month.
The virtual event starts at 6:30 p.m. and will feature Barry C. Black, chaplain for the United States Senate, as its guest speaker.
Black, who has served in the role since 2003, received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from 51Ç鱨վ in 2013. Prior to working on Capitol Hill, he served in the U.S. Navy for more than 27 years, ending his distinguished career as chief of Navy chaplains.
51Ç鱨վ President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D., will also deliver remarks and reflections.
Luisa A. Igloria, Louis I. Jaffe professor of English and creative writing at 51Ç鱨վ and the 20th Poet Laureate of Virginia, will read poetry along with a few invited students who are among the first cohort of Virginia Young Poets in the Community. YPIC's goal is to showcase young poets in Virginia who are trying to use the power of poetry to influence social change, community and civic engagement and emotional well-being.
Hugo Owens Jr., the son of the late Dr. Hugo Owens Sr., will present the Hugo Owens Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Award.
The award is given annually at the MLK event to an outstanding individual or organization that has made considerable contributions to civil rights, politics, housing and social programs through leadership, dedication and persistence over a period.
Owens was known as a tireless lobbyist for the University. He served on the University's Board of Visitors from 1990 to 1994 and was the board's first African American rector.
The event is free and open to the public. You can register to attend
