The annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration is the longest running annual event at Oregon State University focused on social justice and transformative change.
Commemoration Objectives
- Learn about and reflect on the life and legacy of Dr. King and collaboratively envision ways to carry forward his work;
- Participate in an impactful, inclusive and engaging celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. King; and
- Collaboratively learn about and reflect on the legacy of Dr. King in a way that is relevant in today's context.
Sponsored by Oregon State University, the Office of Institutional Diversity, and the OSU Foundation and Alumni Association.
Concert: Kings Return
Presented by PRAx and the Office of Institutional Diversity
Monday, Jan. 19, 7 p.m.
Lightbox Happy Hour, 6 p.m., PRAx Resident Jazz Ensemble with drinks and snacks for purchase
Patricia Valian Reser Center for the Creative Arts, Detrick Hall
Join us to commemorate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. through the power of music with a special performance by Kings Return, a Grammy-nominated vocal ensemble renowned for their unique blend of gospel, jazz, R&B and classical influences.
Kings Return embodies the spirit of unity, togetherness and purpose. Their music speaks to themes central to Dr. King’s enduring vision of justice, love, community and shared humanity.
Legacy Awards
Four legacy awards are awarded by the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration committee – the Phyllis S. Lee Award, the Frances Dancy Hooks Award, the Oscar Humberto Montemayor Award and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Alumni Legacy Award.
Nominations for 2026 are due Dec. 1, 2025. Recipients will be announced at the Peace Breakfast on Jan. 19.
Commemoration Week Events
Oregon State community members are encouraged to work together to plan and host events.
An important part of the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration are events envisioned by Oregon State community members to collaboratively learn about, reflect on and carry on the legacy of Dr. King. Departments, units, offices, organizations and individuals breathe life into the celebration by organizing events throughout the Commemoration to educate, engage and energize.
Event submissions will be accepted until Monday, Dec. 15, 2025.
Peace Breakfast
Monday, Jan. 19
9 to 10:30 a.m.
CH2M HILL Alumni Center, Corvallis
The annual Peace Breakfast, held on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, commemorates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. while honoring members of the Oregon State community who carry his message and work forward in the present. The Peace Breakfast is free and open to Oregon State University community members and specially invited guests.