Franklin College marks MLK Day with several community events

FRANKLIN, Ind. – Franklin College will host a series of events in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, Jan. 19. All events are free and open to the public.

The annual tradition includes hosting a Convocation Lecture Series that promotes the institution’s ideals. The College upholds a common set of values that foster a sense of community and promote personal, spiritual, and professional growth throughout a lifetime.

Franklin College values people of integrity, a commitment to inclusivity, a culture of intellectual curiosity, the drive for innovation and creativity, and the spirit of community.

The day’s events include:

• 11 a.m. | Branigin Room, Napolitan Student Center, “Painting the Dream” – Open to college-age students and students in grades 6–12, this interactive event is hosted by the College’s Center for Diversity and Inclusion. Art instructors from Wine and Canvas will guide participants through a step-by-step painting experience accompanied by a special brunch. Attendees will recreate the award-winning painting Hand in Hand by Ciel of The Child Center of NY and will receive a “Dream Kit.” Registration is required by emailing Marlisha Marcellin at MMarcellin@FranklinCollege.edu.
• 2 p.m. | Richardson Chapel, Worship Service – In collaboration with the College’s InterVarsity Club and local pastors, this worship service will feature prayer, music, and reflections on King’s enduring impact and message.
•  4 p.m. | Richardson Chapel, Convocation Lecture – The fourth lecture in Franklin College’s 2025–26 Convocation Lecture Series is “Constructing King’s Beloved Community Within Our Collective Inner-World,” presented by Dr. Danjuma Gibson of the Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. Light refreshments will be served following the lecture, and Gibson will sign copies of his most recent book, Through the Eyes of Titans, which is available for purchase on Amazon. Registration is requested here.