---
title: Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through service and action
date: 2026-01-13T15:54:00-05:00
author: Nicole Joie
canonical_url: "https://president.umd.edu/news/honoring-dr-martin-luther-king-jr-through-service-and-action"
section: News
---
# Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through service and action

*January 13, 2026* — by Nicole Joie
> As we observe Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we pause to honor a legacy rooted in courage, compassion and an unwavering commitment to justice. Dr. King challenged our nation to confront inequality, to act with moral clarity and to believe in the power of collective action to create lasting change.

Dear Campus Community,

As we observe Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we pause to honor a legacy rooted in courage, compassion and an unwavering commitment to justice. Dr. King challenged our nation to confront inequality, to act with moral clarity and to believe in the power of collective action to create lasting change.

This day is more than a moment of remembrance; it is a call to service and reflection. It invites us to recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of equity and inclusion, and to consider how our actions, both large and small, can help build a more compassionate campus and society. As Dr. King reminded us, “Everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.”

For those looking to honor Dr. King’s legacy through engagement and service, below are events taking place throughout the region. We encourage you to participate, reflect and continue the work of advancing dignity and respect for all.

[**Nyumburu Cultural Center - In Remembrance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.**](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sN2h0h3IsBrV7t5Q1VnBrHn0MJU_FWO8/view?usp=sharing)

Monday, January 19, 2026

10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m.

[Virtual ](https://umd.zoom.us/s/9766945917)

[**City of College Park Tribute to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.**](https://www.collegeparkmd.gov/299/City-Tribute-to-Rev-Dr-Martin-Luther-Kin)

Several opportunities available. All events are held at City Hall (7401 Baltimore Ave., College Park, MD)

[**The Annual MLK Holiday DC Peace Walk & Parade**](https://mlkholidaydc.org/#details)

Monday, January 19, 2026

11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Washington, DC

[**Montgomery County's Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service**](https://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/volunteercenter/volunteers/MLK.html)

Monday, January 19

9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza

Finally, if you would like to serve our campus and broader community throughout the spring semester, please consider joining [**Terps for Change**](https://stamp.umd.edu/lcsl/programs/terps_change). For more one-time volunteer opportunities in our local community, please visit [**Services 24/7**](https://umd.givepulse.com/group/248707-UMD-Services-247).

We are grateful for your commitment to Do Good!

Sincerely,


**Signature of President Darryll Pines**

**Darryll J. Pines** *President, University of Maryland, College Park* He/Him/His



**Georgina Dodge Signature**

**Georgina Dodge**  
*Vice President for Belonging*  
She/Her/Hers



**Patty Perillo**

**Patricia A. Perillo** *Vice President for Student Affairs*  
She/Her/Hers