Vanderbilt University commemorated Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a series of impactful events that brought together voices from the past, present, and future. The MLK Day Commemorative Series, which took place from January 15 to January 19, 2024, highlighted the ongoing work of fostering leadership and opportunity for all, while honoring King’s enduring legacy.
Inspiring Keynote by Cheryl McKissack Daniel
The series commenced on January 15 with a keynote address by Cheryl McKissack Daniel, board president of McKissack & McKissack. Her family has been influential in the construction industry for over a century. During a Q&A session moderated by Jeremi London, Associate Provost for Academic Opportunity, McKissack Daniel discussed her co-authored book, The Black Family Who Built America: The McKissacks, Two Centuries of Daring Pioneers.
She shared her personal experiences as a Black woman leading one of the nation’s oldest minority-owned businesses. “The McKissack family stands as a mirror and a beacon,” McKissack Daniel stated. “It reflects the difficulties that Black professionals have faced while also showcasing what can happen when perseverance meets purpose.”
Her address emphasized the significance of representation and the importance of legacy-building. McKissack Daniel encouraged students to face challenges head-on, invest in self-care, and understand that even small actions can shape a better future. Her anecdotes of resilience and success, ranging from disaster recovery efforts to national infrastructure projects, served as both a guide and a call to action for aspiring leaders.
Vanderbilt Community Marches for Change
On January 19, approximately 80 students, staff, and faculty from Vanderbilt participated in the 41st annual Nashville MLK March and Convocation. The march commenced at Jefferson Street Missionary Baptist Church and concluded at Tennessee State University’s Gentry Center. Participants engaged in a convocation featuring speeches from Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell and State Senator London Lamar.
Through these events, the Vanderbilt community reflected on the past and embraced a future marked by leadership, compassion, and social change. The university’s annual MLK Day of Service, planned for January 24, 2024, was postponed due to severe weather but will be rescheduled in the spring. More details will be made available by the Student Organizations, Leadership and Service team.
By honoring Dr. King’s legacy, Vanderbilt University continues to inspire its community to take meaningful action and contribute to a more equitable society.
