Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration is Jackson College’s annual event honoring Dr. King’s legacy and celebrating individuals who embody his commitment to leadership and service. The event also features the presentation of the King Medal of Service Award. 2027 EVENT Save the Date Date: Saturday, January 16, 2027 Time: 5:30 p.m. Social Gathering; 6 p.m. Dinner & Program Location: Robert Snyder Dining Commons, George E. Potter Center, Jackson College Central Campus, 2111 Emmons Road • Jackson, MI 49201 Tickets: Tickets are available by calling the Potter Center Ticket Office at 517.796.8600. The Ticket Office is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Keynote Speaker Chantay BollingerOwner and Operator, Chick-fil-A Jackson Become an Event Sponsor Support this meaningful event and help us continue to celebrate Dr. King’s legacy of service and leadership. View Sponsor Opportunities Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Service Award The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Service Award nomination form is now open. Please submit nominations by 5 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026. 2027 Nomination Form 2026 Event Highlights King Medal of Service Award The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Service recognizes an individual whose leadership and commitment reflect Dr. King’s enduring vision of human dignity, opportunity, service and a stronger community. Each year, the award honors an exemplary individual who brings people together, lifts others up and makes a meaningful difference in the lives of those around them. Nomination Criteria Nominees for the award may demonstrate these ideals through one or more of the following: Bringing people together by fostering connection, building relationships and strengthening a sense of shared community; Honoring the dignity and worth of every person by demonstrating kindness, respect, compassion and understanding; Lifting others up through encouragement, mentorship and support that helps people grow and thrive; Giving back through meaningful service that makes a positive difference in the lives of individuals, families and the broader community; Creating opportunities for others by expanding access to education, economic opportunity, mentorship, leadership and other resources that help people succeed; and Strengthening our community through collaboration, connection and a shared commitment to the well-being of others. Past Recipients 2025: Lee Hampton 2024: Jeremy Patterson 2023: Anthony Parker 2022: Monica Pierce 2021: Benny Poole 2020: Arlene Robinson 2019: Harold White Jr. 2018: Alan Wade 2017: Robert Burton, Sr. 2016: Bobby Thompkins 2015: Farris Coppage, Jr. 2014: Barbara and Ron Bradley 2013: Sheila A. Patterson; Carl Breeding 2012: Woodrow Wilson, Jr. 2011: Judith Ganton; Renell Weathers 2010: Bobby Burton; Golden Gibson; Gail Mahoney 2009: Francis Reeves; Ernestine Simmons; Frank Weathers 2008: Pastor Frank Hampton; Janice Fairly 2007: Charlie Anderson; Pat Anderson; Reverend Jay Cummings 2006: Dr. David Hamilton; Pastor James Hines; Shirley Pitts; Shelly Saines 2005: Margarita Silva-Potts; Marsha A. Kreucher; Pete Wright; Russell Davis III; Leslie Montgomery; Ted Miller; The Rev. A.P. Williams 2004: Bart Hawley (MLK Celebration – January); Helen Campbell; Gus Krudwig; Lou Cubille; Wanda Holmes; Eileen Lehnert; Billie Oliver (Juneteenth Ceremony – June) 2027 Nomination Form 2026 Recipient James Johnson Jr. About James Johnson Jr. James Johnson Jr. is a longtime Jackson community leader known for his commitment to equity, service, and advocacy for working families. After moving to Jackson as a child and growing up in Kings Community Homes, he graduated from Jackson High School and built a 25-year career as an electrician. He now serves as a business agent for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), representing workers across Jackson County and leading efforts related to workforce development, political engagement, and community service. Johnson has held leadership roles with United Way, including serving as a past board chair, and continues to serve on the Skilled Trades Task Force and several City of Jackson commissions. Guided by lived experience, his work focuses on expanding access to opportunity and ensuring equitable treatment for all. He has also sought public office to elevate the voices of working-class residents and advocate for their needs. 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