Denison will celebrate the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the first day of spring semester, Monday, Jan. 19, 2026. As with past observances of MLK Day, there will be no classes scheduled, and all other campus operations will continue as normal. Residence halls will open as usual for move-in day on Sunday, Jan. 18.

This year’s theme is Hidden Figures: Honoring past and present Civil Rights Leaders who moved MLK’s legacy forward.

Denison is celebrating Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr’s contribution to the civil rights movement, his communities, and the world by honoring little-known civil rights leaders from the past and present, to educate the community about the work and sacrifice of people who have made significant contributions to move MLK’s legacy forward.

Resource Fair

Time: 8:30 -10 a.m.

Location: Slayter Third Floor

MLK Legacy March and Brunch

Time: 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Location: Meet at Slayter Flagpole, march will end at the Mitchell Center.

The annual MLK Jr. legacy march commemorates the life of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This two-part event will start at the Slayter Flagpole and end at Mitchell Center for brunch, celebration, and community dialogue.

Shuttle service will be available to help individuals get to the Mitchell Athletic Center from the flagpole as needed, and from the Mitchell Athletic Center to Slayter after the brunch.

MLK Legacy Brunch

Time: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Location: Mitchell Athletic Center

The MLK Legacy Brunch includes food, student and guest artist performances, and speakers.

Workshops

Time: 1:30 – 2:20 p.m. and 2:35 - 3:25 p.m. and 3:40 - 4:30 p.m.

MLK Day Evening Keynote Speaker

5 p.m. in Herrick Hall