Martin Luther King Jr. Day

On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Jan. 16, 2023, Alma College will pause for the entire day to engage in a range of activities hosted by departments, offices and student organizations across campus that allow our community to celebrate his life and work in their own way. A slate of events then continues throughout the entire week, culminating in a special celebration on Friday, Jan. 20.

While we are encouraging the campus community to engage in the full week of events, we ask that each member of our community find one way and one activity to listen, remember, serve and act.

Most events are free and open to the campus community. Click the corresponding links for more information, including dates, times and contact information.

Monday, Jan. 16

• The MLK Day Campus and Community Brunch is scheduled from 10-11:45 a.m. (doors open at 9:30 a.m.) at the Hogan Center, Art Smith Arena, on campus at Alma College with a keynote speech from Travis Hall, a Saginaw native and ordained bishop from Life Church International.
• Alma College is sponsoring a Red Cross Blood Drive from 11 a.m. until 4:45 p.m. in the Stone Recreation Center. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. Appointments can be made at redcrossblood.org.
• The Community Engagement Fair will give attendees the opportunity to learn about various ways to help their local area, from noon-1:15 p.m. in the Hogan Center lobby.
• Several staff and faculty members will host a series of programs from 12:30-4 p.m. across campus. Break-Out Session topics include
  • Poverty Simulation — Hogan Center, Cappaert Gymnasium
  • Illustrating the Dream — Swanson Academic Center 110
  • Gender-Affirming Closet — Tyler-Van Dusen Campus Center
  • MLK Gallery Walk — Tyler-Van Dusen Campus Center

Wednesday, Jan. 18

• The Hilson Poetry Slam, a tradition started by the late Calvin Hilson ’06, invites poets of all skill and experience levels to perform works centered on King’s legacies. There will be an open mic session for anyone who wishes to perform; memorization is not required. The slam takes place from 6-7:30 p.m. in the lobby of Gelston Hall. This event is open to all Alma College students, staff and the public.

Friday, Jan. 20

• The 2023 Unity Celebration, which concludes the week’s events, will celebrate the achievements of the past week. Enjoy live entertainment, dinner and community from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Tyler-Van Dusen Campus Center. This event is open to all Alma College students, staff and the public.