2025 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration

Villanova celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. King with a series of events and programs designed to highlight continuing injustices, while also celebrating those individuals and organizations that challenge and overcome them. 

MLK Day of Service

9:00 AM–1:00 PM | Saturday, January 18, 2025
Meet at the Jake Nevin Field House at 7:30 AM

Make this a holiday where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to improve lives, bridge social barriers and move our nation closer to the "Beloved Community" that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. envisioned. Join members of the University community to volunteer throughout Greater Philadelphia and on our campus.

Register for the MLK Day of Service as an Individual or as a Group. Registration can only be completed using the above links. If you plan to participate in the MLK Day of Service, please open the appropriate link prior to submitting this page.

Beloved Community Student Lunch: An MLK Day Celebration

11:30 AM–1:00 PM | Monday, January 20, 2025
East Lounge, Dougherty Hall

Students are invited to come together over a meal, take inspiration from the words of MLK and others, and renew a commitment to the Beloved Community. Lunch will be catered from Grill 'N' Dutchy using an inclusive menu that takes various dietary restrictions into consideration. 

Registration encouraged by Thursday, January 16, but not required. 

 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Keynote Address
"Now is the Time: Community over Chaos"

Terry Nance, Ph.D. (Full Bio)
Retired Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer at Villanova

Wednesday, Jan 22 | Villanova Room, Connelly Center
6:45 PM | Villanova Gospel Choir
7:00 PM | Address, reception to follow

Dr. Terry Nance established the annual MLK celebration, one of the many reasons we are thrilled to welcome her as this year’s keynote lecturer. Join us for an inspiring evening. Read more and watch past lectures. 

Registration is encouraged, not required. Open to the public.

Freedom School

10:00 AM–3:30 PM | Thursday, January 23, 2025
Various Rooms in Connelly Center

Freedom School is a day-long workshop inspired by MLK’s vision of justice, led by members of the Villanova community. Students, faculty, and staff are invited to attend hour-long sessions. This year's schedule of sessions will be available in early January 2025. 

Registration is encouraged, not required. 

Please enter your email below to register for this year's events.