More than 300 Southwestern College students, staff, and alumni gathered at Deets Library on Monday, January 19, to honor and reflect on the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
The event featured a diverse panel of staff, students, and alumni, including President Liz Frombgen; Vice President of Special Projects and Planning Dawn Pleas; alumni Jim Robinson and Scott Hecht; students Noah Shed, Rosennscar Elie, Wyatt Tappen, Vanessa Ramos Mendoza, and Hannah Brown; and Pastor Odell Harris. Together, the panel shared messages of hope and discussed the lasting impact of one of America’s foremost civil rights leaders.
Scott Hecht, chairman of the board of trustees, emphasized how small, daily actions can help “bend the arc of universal justice.” Drawing from King’s message, Hecht reiterated the importance of standing up for one’s beliefs. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to speak and praised the college for hosting the event.
“I think it’s just great that this college has this event to bring all kinds of people together to focus on these issues,” Hecht said. “I really enjoyed it, and I’m glad to have this opportunity to speak. It’s good for all of us to be together.”
Following the student’s panel discussion, alumnus Jim Robinson addressed the audience outside Deets Library. Robinson captivated the audience with his powerful story on Oliver Brown, a welder and pastor, who led the landmark 1954 U.S Supreme Court Case, Brown vs Topeka Board of Education. Robinson reminded the audience that no matter how small you feel, the impact you can have on society can be great. Robinson also noted the strong support the event received from the Southwestern community.
Focusing on delivering a message of hope to today’s college students, Robinson said, “It is awesome that the college continues to recognize MLK and his contributions to society. If we don’t learn these lessons, we’re going to keep fighting this battle. Unfortunately, this is not a cause that is ever truly finished.”
Pleas, who has overseen MLK Jr. programs at Southwestern for more than 30 years, spoke about her role in shaping the event. She explained that each year’s program is designed to respond to the current campus and world climate.
“This year was hands down my best interpretation of what I see in the world,” Pleas said. “I’m worried about all people, and I’m focused on putting hope into the world. This is about the Southwestern community. We have such a strong spirit here, but I worry about the world. My word is hope, and I truly believe in hope.”
Pleas noted that while many staff members declined to participate, students were eager to be involved. This marked the first year the program included a student panel, a decision Pleas made intentionally.
“I didn’t want outside people; I just wanted Southwestern and for some reason when I ask for things people show up. It had a nice, crowded feeling about it. It represented African American culture, but it wasn’t a black program,” she added.
Pleas hopes the program challenged attendees and made a meaningful impact, aligning with the college’s mission to remain a safe and welcoming community for all.
To close the program, Pastor Odell Harris blessed the remembrance of MLK Jr. and the students at Southwestern College bringing the event to a close, honoring the legacy of MLK Jr. and encouraging students to continue to spread hope.
