
more than a day
MLK Day 2026
“We must remember that intelligence is not enough. Intelligence plus character–that is the goal of true education. The complete education gives one not only power of concentration but worthy objectives upon which to concentrate.” – Martin Luther King Jr.
One of the pillars on which our university is built is engaged citizenship. We are part of Flint, just as Flint is part of us. Service to our Flint and Genesee County communities is a year-round priority for us. On Jan 19, 2026, we will have an opportunity to continue our relationship with our community partners and celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., as we have every year since 1995.
The day’s celebration will include an in-person breakfast with a keynote panel discussion with UM-Flint alums, beginning at 8:30 a.m. in the University Center Michigan Rooms. The panel discussion will focus on the impact of student activism and speak to some of the positive outcomes of their activism while at UM-Flint. While everyone is encouraged to attend, we ask that you RSVP.
I hope that you will be able to participate in our keynote speaker program and in the many enriching volunteer opportunities later this semester to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Volunteers Opportunities
| Event | Time | Description | Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| MLK Day Keynote Breakfast 2026 | 8:30 – 10 a.m. | In-person breakfast keynote session featuring UM-Flint alumnus, Dr. Dawn Demps, in the University Center Michigan Rooms. | Register for Keynote Breakfast |
| MLK Day Service: United Way 2026 | 9a.m. – 1 p.m. | Help package meals to address hunger in Genesee County. 50 volunteers needed. | Register for United Way |
| Habitat for Humanity | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Build bunk beds for children and families. 20 volunteers needed. | Register for Habitat for Humanity |
| MLK Day Service: No-Sew Blanket 2026 | 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Tie no-sew blankets in the Michigan Rooms for the houseless population in Flint. | |
| MLK Day Service: Crossover Downtown Outreach Ministry 2026 | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Organize Christmas area, coats, household items, label and hang clothing, stock pantry shelves. 10 volunteers needed. | |
| Carriage Town Ministries | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Food prep in the kitchen. 10 volunteers needed. | Register for Carriage Town Ministries |
| MLK Day Service: MI Blood 2026 | 10:30 a.m – 3 p.m. | Donate blood in the Happenings Room. | Register for MI Blood |
MLK Committee Co-Chairs
Gary Ashley – Co-Chair and Service Site Coordinator
Office of Engaged Learning Program Manager
gaashley@umich.edu
David J. Luke – Co-Chair
Assistant Vice Chancellor,
Wolverine Hub of Opportunity, Persistence and Excellence
djluke@umich.edu