RSS FeedMLK Dinner 2006
Jackson Community College welcomed more than 625 members of the community to the 14th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration, held Saturday, Jan. 14, in the Community Events Center on the main campus.
Dr. Lauren Dungy-Poythress, a native of Jackson who is now an obstetrician-gynecologist in Indianapolis, Ind., delivered an inspirational keynote address on "My Journey… from Jackson to the World." Using the story of David and Goliath as a background, she urged people to choose their battles carefully, look beyond the obvious in people, don't listen to the naysayers, and focus on what you are working toward, not the "giant" or problem you may face at the moment. "Keep your eyes on the prize," she urged.
JCC presented JCC's Martin Luther King Jr. Medals of Honor to: Dr. David Hamilton, professor and dean of the School of Education at Spring Arbor University, who has mentored numerous African-American students during his tenure there; Shirley Pitts, founder and director of Jackson High School's Black History Tour group which has toured nationally spreading the message of black history and culture; Shelly Saines, chief executive officer of the Jackson County Community Foundation who has worked diligently for programs helping youth and minorities; and Rev. James L. Hines, pastor of the Lily Missionary Baptist Church and Lily Missions Center, who has worked to provide opportunities for the youth of Jackson.
Local dignitaries presented recognitions to Dr. Dungy-Poythress, including Jackson Public School Superintendent Dan Evans, Jackson Mayor Martin Griffin, Michigan Senator Mark Schauer, and a representative for the office of U.S. Congressman Joe Schwarz.
