MU Celebrates
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Interested in joining us virtually?
A livestream is available for this event. No registration is required for this option.
Program Speaker
Emcee
Jerrod Jackson
Jerrod Jackson, Director of MizzouRec, has served as a leader at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the University of Texas at Austin, Texas A&M University, and Louisiana State University. His strategic vision and steadfast commitment to creating positive, inclusive environments have left lasting impacts on students, staff, and campus communities nationwide.
Throughout the evening, Jerrod will inspire attendees to reflect on the heart of leadership. His words will encourage all to think critically about how we can continue to drive positive change in our communities and uphold the values of service, humility and compassion Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. championed.

Program Speaker
Opening Remarks
Dr. Angela King Taylor
Dr. Angela King Taylor leads the Division of Student Affairs at the University of Missouri as the Interim Vice Chancellor. In her remarks, she will address Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy and his profound impact on higher education.
As a leader, Dr. King Taylor guides the division to create transformative opportunities for students to connect their academic and cocurricular lives in ways that contribute to a sense of belonging at Mizzou and overall student success.

Program Speaker
Keynote Address
Dr. Yorri Berry
Dr. Yorri Berry is a poet and youth empowerment advocate with extensive experience in elevating underrepresented voices. Her impact includes roles with Martha’s Table, KIPP Los Angeles Schools, Communities in Schools and the Children’s Defense Fund.
Dr. Berry directs a national policy fellowship training formerly homeless youth to transform policies on homelessness and trafficking. She is also an advocate for women and children, serving on advisory committees with organizations like Futures Without Violence.

Keynote Discussion
- Dr. Yorri Berry – Director of Youth Partnerships, Youth Empowerment Speaker
- Carrington Peavy – President, Legion of Black Collegians
- Clay Van Eaton – President, Missouri Students Association
- Damilola Oduolowu – Director of Public Relations, Graduate Professional Council
- Makayla Morton – Executive Director, Campus Activities Programming Board
- Mathew Kimaku – Past President, Alumni Association Student Board
Performances
Sankofa Chorale
Directed by Dr. Brandon A. Boyd, Sankofa Chorale provides a choral and instrumental space where singers of all identities can perform the various genres of the Black tradition.
Alex Plummer
Plummer serves as Executive Pastor and Minister of Music at United Community Cathedral in Columbia, Missouri. He is passionate about helping others overcome limitations and achieve greatness through ministry, mentorship and music.
Candace Kauffman
Kauffman honors her faith and builds community through dance. She trained at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center, where she studied ballet, West African dance, modern dance, choreography and more.
Artists' Showcase
Cianna Marie Hernandez
Black Boy Joy
This work reflects the deep bonds within families and calls to the importance of unity, dignity and love – values Dr. King embraced. Mirroring his vision of strong family structures as part of the larger movement for racial equality, it captures the complex experiences of Black children and parents by illuminating the freedom and joy, power and resilience, and boundaries and constraints that surround them.
Dai’Montre Yancy
Family Matters
This work draws inspiration from the family photo album, symbolizing the importance of family in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. It highlights Coretta Scott King’s ability to navigate the dual responsibilities of activism and motherhood, speaking to the resilience of Black women who often shoulder immense burdens while striving for the well-being of their families and communities.
Kijah Woods
Heavy is the Head that Wears the Crown
Reflecting Dr. King's message of unity and shared humanity, this piece encourages the viewer to consider the connections between different movements, communities and generations. Heavy is the Head that Wears the Crown also emphasizes the dignity and sense of divine purpose Dr. King embodied through his purpose-driven leadership.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Student Growth Workshop
11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. | Friday, Jan. 31 | MU Student Center 2206 B&C
Participants will reflect on Dr. King’s vision of a more just future. Through this skill-building workshop guided by Dr. Yorri Berry, they will gain tools to develop their personal vision for leadership. They will also learn real-world strategies and skills to manifest their personal values in their lives at Mizzou and beyond.