Thank you for joining us for the 19th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Observance, titled "I Am My Ancestors’ Wildest Dreams." This program provided a powerful opportunity to reflect on past challenges while inspiring us to strive for greatness, work toward a just society, and continue the fight for civil rights championed by Dr. King.
The highlight of this year’s observance was a panel discussion featuring distinguished leaders: Josie Brown, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences and Hillyer College; Ronnell Higgins, commissioner of Connecticut’s Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection; Yolande Nicholson Spears, senior vice president of education and chief community impact officer for The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts; and Eboni Nelson, dean of the University of Connecticut School of Law. The discussion was moderated by David Thompson ’89, M ’91, vice chair of the University of Hartford’s Board of Regents.
We were also honored to witness the incredible talents of our students, who hosted the event with grace and delivered powerful performances that captured the spirit of Dr. King’s legacy. Their creativity, passion, and dedication added depth and inspiration to the observance.
Additionally, we celebrated the recipients of the 2025 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Beloved Community Awards, recognizing individuals who exemplify Dr. King’s vision through their unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and service. Faculty members Maria Esposito Frank and Jane Horvath were also recognized for their efforts that have contributed and advanced inclusive excellence.
Thank you for being a part of this meaningful event as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and work toward a brighter future.
For those who were unable to attend, click below to view the recording and read remarks by Provost Katherine Black.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Christine Grant, AVP for Inclusive Excellence and Belonging: cgrant@hartford.edu