MidAmerica Nazarene University invites the public to its 17^th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Celebration on January 17, 2023, at College Church of the Nazarene, 2020 E. Sheridan in Olathe. Each year the university honors and promotes the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. with this special service.

The special speaker for the event will be Ashford Collins, vice principal at Valley Park Elementary School in Overland Park, Kansas. Collins has been an educator since he graduated from MNU in 2012. He has coached athletics and provided leadership and encouragement to youth since he was a college student.

Collins coordinated the Hope Walk in Olathe to gather different organizations, initiatives, and people to inspire and share their impact on social justice, mental health, and community relations. The event was held each year from 2016-2021.

Due to his achievements and work in the community, Collins will be honored with MNU’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Living Legacy award.

In addition to the special speaker and music by MNU choirs and musicians, Student Diversity Council members will participate in the service.

Sponsors of this event help fund diversity activities at MNU. Sponsorships are still available. Learn more at mnu.edu/martin-luther-king-jr-community-celebration.