Jo Alice Blondin, Ph.D., Clark State president, welcomes guests to the 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon and Awards Ceremony.
On Jan. 16, Clark State College will hold the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon and Awards Ceremony from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hollenbeck Bayley Creative Arts and Conference Center, 275 S. Limestone St. in Springfield. The annual community event honors King’s life and legacy and recognizes local youth, organizations, community members and Clark State employees who reflect his mission and commitment to service.
“We look forward to welcoming the community for a program that inspires reflection and shared purpose,” said Jo Alice Blondin, Ph.D., Clark State president. “This event reminds us that each of us can help strengthen our communities through leadership and daily actions.”
The event, sponsored by Invenergy, City of Springfield and Park National Bank, features the announcement of winners of the Hope Award, which recognizes a local organization whose unwavering commitment to service, empowerment and positive change has led to significant, positive community impact; as well as the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award, which honors a Clark State employee who leads by example through personal development, inclusive practices and forward-thinking approaches that embody unity and empowerment and inspire others to create positive change.
In addition, the Peace Keeper Award, presented with CareSource, recognizes local high school seniors who exhibit team-building skills and celebrate community through their actions.
“Each year, these honorees remind us that progress is made possible when individuals and organizations commit themselves to serving others,” said Khalil Scott, Clark State academic advisor and event committee member. “Their example encourages all of us to contribute to the greater good.”
Michael Carter, Springfield native and longtime advocate for education, youth and community, will deliver the keynote address titled “Are You a Catalyst for Change?” For more than 40 years, Carter has worked with, coached and mentored young people throughout the Greater Dayton and Springfield regions. His commitment to expanding opportunity continues to shape lives across the region.
Carter will also explore five characteristics he believes are key to driving meaningful progress: proximity, empathy, foresight, commitment and courage. He will highlight stories of individuals who have created lasting, positive change and explain why their impact remains essential today, as well as discuss how the Carter Center, and similar spaces, stand as testaments to resilience and hope.
“Michael Carter’s decades of service to young people and education, and his dedication to helping all individuals achieve success, have created lasting, measurable impact across our region,” said Dawayne Kirkman, Ph.D., Clark State senior vice president for student affairs, enrollment management and regional locations. “We are honored to welcome him as our keynote speaker and grateful for the leadership he continues to model.”
Attendance to the event is free but seating is limited and all attendees must register in advance by Jan. 10 at go.clarkstate.edu/mlk-rsvp. A buffet lunch will be provided. Additional support for the event is provided by the Springfield Foundation and Springfield Links.