UD gives MLK Day Celebration New Artistic Touch
Photo via University of Dayton
Aubrey Brickner | Contributing Writer
The University of Dayton is transforming its traditional breakfast and keynote speaker events to celebrate the life of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by introducing a brunch and artistic performance, in an attempt to attract more students and the wider Dayton community.
In the past, the University presented an 8 a.m. breakfast on the Tuesday after the King holiday with a nationally renowned personality to speak about the interconnectedness of social justice, education, and faith. It was the perfect timing for many faculty members and staff to attend.
However, Mérida Allen Tate, associate dean of students, executive director of the Multi-Ethnic Education and Engagement Center and co-chair of the university’s MLK events committee, explained that “it wasn’t as open and accessible to many people… students wouldn’t be able to engage in the same way.”
The 2026 celebration, scheduled for Jan. 20 in the Kennedy Union ballroom from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m., will include a brunch with performances by the Ebony Heritage Singers gospel choir and the UD Jazz Ensemble to tie in the celebration’s art-centered theme: “The Rhythm of Values: The Spirit of Justice.”
Another addition to the self-serve brunch (no tickets needed) will feature UD alumna and Dayton-based award-winning journalist, entrepreneur and community-builder Te’Jal J. Cartwright. She will lead a reflection on social change and self-perception. There also will be a gallery walk in the Kennedy Union ballroom, an informal activity that will be happening simultaneously. Students will give reflections and the University will present its symbolic wreath-laying on a replica portion of UD’s MLK monument. The Dayton Contemporary Dance Company will also be performing on Jan. 21 in Boll Theater, with choreography that connects to King’s speech through art. You won’t need tickets for the dance event, either.
These changes will bring about more of a “reception-like atmosphere” as Tate described it to Flyer News.
“It’s less about listening, and more about being,” she said.
The motivation behind these changes stems from the intention to make the event more accessible and financially responsible, according to Tate. The previous 8 a.m. breakfast in January was often paired with weather too often not ideal, making it challenging for some students to safely make it to the event. With the university undergoing many structural changes, the committee chose to shift its resources. This event instead is using the gifts of the community’s talent and alumni to create an engaging and vibrant event that honors King’s legacy and emphasizes the importance of the arts.
This new look sets the stage for more participation from the Dayton community. Tate said the ultimate goal of this event is to “activate the power within our community.”
She said she wants everyone to feel valued and to see themselves in the community. These changes also serve as a reminder to appreciate the arts and remember that “art is activism,” she said.
The University will be organizing a group to attend MLK Dayton Inc.’s MLK memorial march at 10 a.m. Jan. 19, from 1323 W. Third St., near Drew Health Center to Sinclair College’s Building 12. Transportation is available on the free Dayton RTA Flyer or provided by the University, depending on the number of attendees.
Editor’s Note: Aubrey Brickner is enrolled in the Flyer News Practicum and was assigned this report as a part of the course, which offers students experiential experiences in the journalism arts. The Practicum, an elective in the Department of Communication, College of Arts and Sciences, is offered fall and spring.