Molloy University hosted its annual “MLK Day of Service 2026” on its campus, bringing students, educators, artists, and community members together for a full day of programming centered on the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
The event highlighted themes of service, creativity, civic engagement, and youth expression through a keynote address, interactive workshops, and volunteer-focused activities held throughout the campus.
The day began with a keynote address by Dr. John Wesley White, Ph.D., professor of English education and adolescent literacy at the University of North Florida. Drawing on his background in education and literacy, White reflected on Dr. King’s values, his impact on society, and the continued relevance of his work within today’s social and educational landscape.
“Justice isn’t a moment, it is a movement,” White said during his speech. “And movements are built by communities, by people who choose love over fear, truth over comfort, and hope over despair.”
His remarks set the tone for a day focused on reflection, dialogue, and action.
“Dr. King envisioned a world where people saw the humanity, dignity, and welfare of others as critical to their own,” White added.
Following the speech a mini resource fair was held in the Public Square lobby. Non-profit organizations from the region hosted information tables showcasing service initiatives and volunteer opportunities. Attendees were able to connect directly with representatives, learn about community-based work, and participate in raffle opportunities scheduled for later in the day.
The program continued with two rounds of concurrent workshops that offered participants a choice of hands-on and discussion-based sessions. One workshop, World House Speech – MLK Connection to Global Citizenship, was hosted by Molloy honors students and examined Dr. King’s role as a global citizen. Participants explored how principles of service, leadership, and global awareness continue to shape civic engagement today.
Several service-oriented workshops were also offered, including Smile Bags, where attendees decorated and assembled care packages for families supported by Bethany House, and Care Packages for the Rockville Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, which focused on creating personalized packages and notes for residents.
Health-focused programming included Skin Cancer Protection, a session designed to educate participants on prevention strategies, early warning signs, and clinical assessment tools.
Art and youth expression were central components of the day’s programming. Claiming the Sky: Art and Activism After Ringgold, led by Professor Jenny LaMonica, invited participants to explore activism through art inspired by Faith Ringgold’s story quilts. Using everyday materials, attendees created works reflecting themes of freedom, resilience, and community, while learning about Ringgold’s artistic legacy. Exhibitors from the Long Island Black Artist Association participated in the workshops, adding a community arts component to the sessions.
In the afternoon, Pass The MIC: Youth Voices for Justice provided high school students with a platform to express Dr. King’s values through spoken word, rap, and short performance pieces. The interactive workshop emphasized collaboration, creativity, and performance centered on equity, dignity, and social change.
