Ferris State University’s 39th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration will reflect on history shaping the institution and offer an alum’s message of encouragement and inspiration in programs Tuesday, Jan. 21 through Thursday, Jan. 23.

Senior Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Officer Colleen Green said from its legislative conception, MLK Jr. Day serves as “a day on, not a day off.”

“We celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Week to honor his legacy of justice, equality and service,” Green said. “It is a time to replicate his vision of a united and compassionate world while recommitting ourselves to fostering diversity and inclusion by bringing positive change to our community.”

Volunteers are encouraged to post social media photos with the hashtag #FERRISMLK2025 while offering community service for a chance to win a hat or t-shirt.

The annual MLK Jr. March is slated to depart from the Rankin Atrium on Tuesday, Jan. 21 at 4 p.m., with a fireside chat in the David L. Eisler Center ballrooms to follow at 4:30 p.m. Ferris State President Bill Pink and Vice President of Diversity, Inclusion and Strategic Initiatives David Pilgrim will reflect on leadership and change, considering the history and future of the university in context with The King Center’s 2025 strategic theme “Mission possible: Protecting Freedom, Justice and Democracy in the Spirit of Nonviolence365.” These events are currently up in the air due to the weather.

Performances by the university’s Jazz Band and the West Michigan Jurisdiction Choir and Friends are also part of this program.

Class of 1998 College of Business graduate Mike Sears of Detroit will present “Metamorphosis: A Time to Change” in the Eisler Center Ballrooms on Wednesday, Jan. 22, at 5 p.m.

Sears followed his dream to be a first-generation graduate, earning his Bachelor of Science in Music Industry Management. Sears describes himself as a “purposepreneur,” offering educational and entertaining messages through storytelling, music and the spoken word. Student performances precede Sears’ presentation and light refreshments will be provided at the event.

The Office of Multicultural Student Services and the Diversity and Inclusion Office conclude activities with a Trivia Night Thursday, Jan. 23, at 5 p.m. in Eisler Center Ballroom C, giving prizes to those well-versed in Ferris and civil rights history and snacks for all who attend.

Other community contribution opportunities include Career and Professional Success-hosted sessions to create “Thank You” cards and coasters for local first responders on Jan. 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Room 209 of the Eisler Center, then from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Center’s Room 217. Finally, contributions can be dropped off for the Bulldog Food Pantry at Ferris State athletics events throughout the week.

Those with disabilities who may require assistance to participate in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration events are asked to contact the Office of Multicultural Student Services at (231) 591-2617 or by email at least 72 hours before their request.

Follow Ferris State University on Facebook for updates on cancellations regarding the celebration.