UW-Stevens Point to commemorate MLK Day with free, public event

Honoring his life and legacy of civil rights, Martin Luther King Jr. Day will be celebrated with a free, public event at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point this month.

The third annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. commemorative event, "Freedom: Your Voice, Instilling Hope and Joy," will be held from 4:30-6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 22, in the Dreyfus University Center Laird Room, 1015 Reserve St., Stevens Point.

It will feature keynote speaker Kevin Leavy, president of the Beloit City Council and director of food and nutrition in Freeport Hospital. Doors open at 4 p.m., and the event will conclude with a meet and greet with Leavy from 6-6:30 p.m. The event is free, but registration is encouraged by noon on Jan. 22. Refreshments will be served, and a virtual option will also be available.

Please register for the event at https://uwspmlk.eventbrite.com.

"Join us to celebrate Dr. King's commitment to education and building a society of equality and integrity," said UWSP Chancellor Thomas Gibson. "We all have a role in making our voices heard and following Dr. King's example in advocating for justice and rights for all people."

Leavy has dedicated his life to service, leadership, and community empowerment. As the longest-serving African American city councilman in Beloit's history, he currently presides as president of the Beloit City Council, a role Leavy has held multiple times throughout his tenure of over 15 years.

Beyond his professional and civic roles, Leavy has made a lasting mark on education equity and mentorship. As the first African American chairperson of the Blackhawk Technical College Board, he led with vision, serving on numerous committees to advance education and opportunity. His commitment to youth development is evident in his role as former president of the Black Male Role Model Group, mentoring and inspiring the next generation of Black leaders.