By Jeannette Carrington
Jcarrington@lc.edu
Lewis and Clark Community College held its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration event on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at “The Commons” located in the math and science building on the college’s Godfrey Campus. The event, which has been a staple at the college for the past decade, celebrated Dr. King’s legacy through speeches, music, and community engagement.
The program began with the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” performed by attendees who were encouraged to sing all three verses. Dr. Mumba, a key organizer of the event, welcomed the audience, including college administrators, faculty, staff, students, and community members. She emphasized the importance of Dr. King’s work and the college’s commitment to honoring his message of justice, hope, and equality.
Lewis and Clark students Charles Ervin, Vondasia Pitman, and Montrez West delivered excerpts from Dr. King’s speeches, “The Other America” and “Letter from Birmingham Jail.” Student Na’ilah Simmons read “Still I Rise,” a poem by Maya Angelou. Charles Ervin is a freshman studying engineering science. Vondasia Pittman is a sophomore majoring in accounting. Montrez West is a sophomore and baseball player. Naila Simmons is a freshman pursuing an Associate of Arts degree.
Ralph Monroe and Jared Hennings provided musical tributes, enhancing the commemorative atmosphere with their renditions of classic spirituals and contemporary pieces, adding a poignant layer to the event.
Debra Pitts, a former high school administrator in Alton and Bethalto, delivered the keynote address. Pitts, who has an extensive background in education and community service, shared her insights on Dr. King’s teachings and the importance of continuing his work. She challenged the audience to reflect on their contributions to social justice and community improvement. “Dr. King was a man concerned about change, not for himself, but for everyone,” Pitts said. “In times such as these, what would Dr. Martin Luther King do? And my question is, what are we doing?”
Pitts emphasized the need for ongoing efforts to achieve equality and justice. She encouraged attendees to mentor young adults and senior citizens, attend local government meetings, and actively participate in community initiatives. “We need leaders not in love with money, but in love with justice; not in love with publicity, but in love with humanity,” she stated, quoting Dr. King.
The event featured opportunities for attendees to connect and discuss the impact of Dr. King’s legacy on their lives and communities. The program concluded with a heartfelt rendition of the spiritual song “Still Away,” arranged by Brenda Lancaster, sung by Jared Hennings, and a closing speech by Maya Lawrence, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Excellence at Lewis and Clark Community College. Lawrence thanked everyone for their participation and urged them to carry the spirit of Dr. King’s message into their daily lives.
Lewis and Clark Community College continues to honor Dr. King’s legacy through various events and activities, fostering a culture of inclusivity and social justice within the campus and the broader community.
For more information about upcoming events, visit www.lc.edu.
Contact the Lewis and Clark Community College Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusive Excellence at (618) 468-6030 or by email at mylawrence@lc.edu.
