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For immediate release
Evening of inspiration planned to remember
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Prepare to be inspired anew as Jackson Community College welcomes Dr. Lauren Dungy-Poythress as the keynote speaker for the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration. The event will be held on Saturday, Jan. 14, with a VIP and alumni reception, as well as a student forum, at 5 p.m., followed by dinner and program beginning at 6 p.m. in the JCC Community Events Center (formerly the Michigan Space and Science Center).
Dr. Lauren Dungy-Poythress, a physician, will speak on "My Journey, from Jackson to the World." She is the daughter of two educators, Dr.Wilbur Dungy, who began teaching at JCC in 1953 and was the College's first African-American professor, and Cleomae Dungy, an educator with Jackson Public Schools for more than 30 years. She grew up on the south side of Jackson, the second of four children, and graduated from Parkside High School in 1977. She graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School in 1985. Today, she is an obstetrician-gynecologist who specializes in maternal fetal medicine. She currently resides in Indianapolis, Ind., with her husband, Wesley, and two daughters. Her brother, Tony Dungy, is the head coach of the NFL's Indianapolis Colts. "She is a truly dynamic individual and inspiring speaker," said Tony Dungy.
"Bring your families and friends, because this will be one of the most inspiring success stories you will ever hear," said Lee Hampton, director of multicultural relations for JCC.
The student forum scheduled for 5 p.m. will explore "Success in Higher Education."
Also at the event, JCC's Martin Luther King Jr. Medals of Honor will be presented to: Dr. David Hamilton, professor and dean of the School of Education at Spring Arbor University; Shirley Pitts, founder and director of Jackson High School's Black History Tour group; Shelly Saines, chief executive officer of the Jackson County Community Foundation; and Rev. James L. Hines, pastor of the Lily Missionary Baptist Church and Lily Missions Center.
Tickets for this event will cost $20 for adults, $12 for students, and may be purchased at the JCC Potter Center Box Office, (517) 796-8600, or at the Martin Luther King Center, (517) 788-4067.
