Members of the Campus Community,
In 1964, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. became the youngest person ever to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. In his acceptance speech, he shared these immortal remarks:
“I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality.”
These poignant words embody the inspiring career of Dr. Mary Frances Berry, keynote speaker for our 38th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.
For over four decades, Dr. Berry has been one of the most recognizable and respected voices in our nation’s civil rights, gender equality, and social justice movements. An author, educator, and historian, Dr. Berry served as the chairperson of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission and led the charge for equal rights and liberties for all Americans over the course of four presidential administrations.
We are honored to welcome Dr. Berry to campus for this special event. Rather than holding our campus celebration today on MLK Day, we will host it on Monday, January 22 at 7 p.m. in Christ Chapel. With classes in session during this time, it will allow more members of our campus community to join us for this special celebration.
We encourage all members of the Gettysburg College community to attend as we reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. King, and consider how we can advance this vital unfinished work.
Sincerely,
Janet Morgan Riggs ’77 Jeanne J. Arnold
President Chief Diversity Officer