Georgia State’s 31st annual MLK Convocation was held today in Georgia State’s Student Center Ballroom, celebrating the life and legacy of the late Dr. King.
Acclaimed poet Richard Blanco delivered the night’s keynote speech. Blanco, an openly gay Cuban American interspersed numerous poetry recitals with his commentary reflecting on the themes of home, identity and acceptance, resonating with the words Dr. King spoke years ago.
After Blanco’s presentation, the winners of the 2014 MLK Torch of Peace and Horsea Williams Awards were announced, honoring the achievements of students, staff and organizations that promote positivity in the community and Dr King’s ideals. Winners included Georgia State alumni Kyle Stapleton and professor Olga Jarrett.
“[MLK] is a visionary. He embodied what it means to give back to your community and to serve others,” LaConya Cobb, graduate assistant of campus events, said. “MLK Day is a day to give back and reflect on where we are now and where we come from.”
