Speakers from Stevens’ Division of Student Affairs highlighted King’s enduring legacy of love, service and non-violence, describing how his vision for a “beloved community” has inspired the university’s educational philosophy and strategic plan. Attendees then enjoyed several student performances, including a step dance routine by members of Lambda Tau Omega Sorority, Inc., and speeches by winners of the university’s second annual MLK Oratorical Contest.

Acclaimed civil rights activist and movement strategist Tylik McMillan delivered the morning’s keynote address, urging young people to assert their rights and embrace discomfort as a catalyst for progress. “Uncomfortability is how we push forward,” he said.

In the afternoon, hundreds of volunteers participated in service activities benefiting 14 local nonprofits and community organizations. On-campus, they assembled hygiene kits, wrote letters to elders and those in hospice, and made sandwiches to be donated to The Hoboken Shelter. Off-campus, small teams took on cleaning, organizing and refurbishing projects at community partner organizations and did STEAM activities with students at Hoboken Charter School.

The event’s afternoon reception showcased more student talent, including a step and spoken word performance by members of Stevens’ Black Student Union and a musical performance by second-year student Valentina Vasquez. New Jersey Assemblywoman Linda Carter M.S. ’00 delivered the event’s closing keynote.