Syracuse Sun

Sarah Willie-LeBreton, the president of Smith College, is set to deliver a keynote address at Syracuse University's 40th Annual Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. The event will take place on January 26, 2025, at the JMA Wireless Dome and follows the theme "Living History."

Tickets for the celebration are now available, with guests encouraged to reserve their spots early due to a special anniversary dinner program. This annual gathering is recognized as the largest of its kind on any college campus and aims to honor Dr. King's legacy while reflecting Syracuse University's dedication to inclusivity and academic excellence.

"Forty is a special number, and 40 years is a special commitment," said Rev. Brian Konkol, vice president and dean of Hendricks Chapel. "We are honored to welcome President Sarah Willie-LeBreton as our featured speaker for this historic 40th anniversary celebration." He highlighted Willie-LeBreton's impact in honoring her father's legacy and inspiring positive change.

Willie-LeBreton's background includes extensive experience in academia, with previous roles at Swarthmore College as provost and dean of faculty until 2023. Her educational credentials include degrees from Haverford College and Northwestern University.

The event will also feature performances by student and community groups, along with the presentation of Unsung Hero Awards. Dinner buffets will be available near the JMA Dome’s west end zone starting at 5 p.m., offering various dietary options.

Tickets for staff, faculty, and the general public are priced at $40 for both dinner and program access; students can attend for $20. Ticket purchases should be made online or through designated outlets.

Additional services such as free parking, ASL interpretation, AIRA, and CART will be provided during the event.

For more information or accommodation requests related to the MLK Celebration, interested parties can contact Hendricks Chapel via email or phone.