Students, faculty, staff, and members of the community will gather at Valparaiso University’s campus on Monday, January 19, 2026 as we remember the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The Convocation ceremony will take place from 10:30 a.m. until noon at the Chapel of the Resurrection.
The theme of this year’s event is “Being a Good Neighbor: What Are You Doing for Others?
In a 1957 speech in Montgomery, AL., Dr. King said “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” This year, we move beyond conversation and into action. We invite the Valparaiso community to explore what it truly means to be a neighbor—not just in proximity, but in spirit and service.
This year’s convocation speaker is three-time Valparaiso University graduate Ragen Hatcher ’00, ’03 J.D., ’05 MBA, an Indiana House of Representatives Legislator leading revitalization efforts with the Gary Sanitary District. Hatcher has worked in law, governance and education in pursuit of strengthening the communities she serves. Her dedication to leadership and service is an example of the values the University looks to instill in all students, and her work since graduating embodies Valpo’s hopes for all its alumni.
As part of the celebration, the University will also recognize the recipients of the Valparaiso University Martin Luther King Jr. Award. This award recognizes
individuals and groups in the campus community who have lived Dr. King’s vision through their words and actions. In addition, the Valparaiso University Martin
Luther King Jr. Community Drum Major Instinct Award is bestowed upon an individual who selflessly engages in daily acts of service, contributing to the
improvement of their community, Northwest Indiana, our state, our country, and our world.
For more information on the day’s events, as well as details on past speakers and qualifications for awards, visit the official Valparaiso University MLK Day website at
valpo.edu/about/mlk-day/.
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