MLK Celebration The MLK Celebration is Jackson College’s annual event honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and featuring the presentation of the King Medal of Service Award. 2026 Event Highlights King Medal of Service Award The nomination period has ended for the 2026 Medal of Service award. The Jackson College King Medal of Service award honors individuals and organizations who give time, talent and resources to make our community a better place. The medal will be awarded during the MLK Celebration in January. The award criteria include those who are committed to carrying out the dream and vision of Dr. King in several areas: Belief in the basic tenets of cultural and ethnic diversity; Giving back to the community through volunteerism and service; Support and promotion of educational opportunities for underrepresented populations in Jackson County; Promoting financial opportunities for poorer citizens of Jackson County; Guiding youth and offering opportunities for social and moral development, giving them tools to interact socially with the broader culture; and, Working toward a safe community and reduction of crime in Jackson County. 2026 Recipient 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. 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. PattersonCarl Breeding 2012 Woodrow Wilson, Jr. 2011 Judith GantonRenell Weathers 2010 Bobby BurtonGolden GibsonGail Mahoney 2009 Francis ReevesErnestine SimmonsFrank Weathers 2008 Pastor Frank HamptonJanice Fairly 2007 Charlie AndersonPat AndersonReverend Jay Cummings 2005 Dr. David HamiltonPastor James HinesShirley PittsShelly Saines About Who We Are About the College Maroon & Gold Standards Strategic Agenda Locations Central Campus Jackson College Hillsdale Hillsdale County Early Middle College Jackson College Lenawee Jackson College Global Fast Facts Careers Leadership Board of Trustees Members Meetings Policies By-Laws Performance Monitoring File a Complaint President’s Office About the President Initiatives Advocacy Executive Order Compliance Former Presidents Resources Executive Council Academic Council Instructional Quality Committees Organizational Charts History Heritage Center Awards & Recognition Community Awards Distinguished Service Award MLK Celebration Employee Awards Outstanding Administrator Award Outstanding Faculty Award Outstanding Staff Award TCS2 Award Student Recognition Dean’s List Outstanding Student Award Points of Pride Institutional Info & Reporting Accreditation Consumer Information Policies & Procedures Professional Licensure Disclosures Transparency Reporting
