The MLK Day of Action took place on Jan. 20 in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in the Center Room of the Elaine Langone Center. The Office of Civic Engagement coordinated this event.

Participants made fleece hats to benefit various children organizations. Students were given access to resources in order to increase their personal involvement in service projects. They also learned how to find out more information  about upcoming service opportunities.

For many individuals within the University’s community, the Day of Action tradition embodies the spirit of Martin Luther King, Jr.

“Selflessness, sacrifice, and service were hallmarks of Dr. King’s vision. Thus it is fitting that Bucknell, like many universities, devotes time and resources to nurturing these values in the campus community during the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday,” Vincent Stephens, Director of Multicultural Student Services and Chair of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Week Planning Committee, said.

At the conclusion of the MLK Day of Action, students took a community service pledge that stated a goal of becoming more involved in service this semester.

“This service could be whatever is realistic for them- finally cleaning out that hall closet and donate those items, give blood at regular intervals, start tutoring at an after-school program,” Lynn Pierson, the Assistant Director of Community Service, said.

Ultimately, Stephens credits Pierson and the Office of Civic Engagement for their promotion of student service involvement on campus.

“Beyond the day, the Office of Civic Engagement offers valuable service learning experiences year-round. Lynn’s leadership in cultivating an ethic of service is central to her invitation to serve on the Martin Luther King Jr. week planning committee and coordinate the Day of Action,” Stephens said.