Wheeling University to Host Speaker and Activities to Mark MLK Day

January 15, 2025

Wheeling University to Host Speaker and Activities to Mark MLK Day

WHEELING, W.Va., Jan. 15 ­- Wheeling University will host a number of activities to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, including a presentation by a martial arts instructor.

Hanshi Jason P. Davis of Fairmont, West Virginia will offer insights into the "History of African Americans in Martial Arts" during a presentation at Noon, on Monday inside Wheeling University's Troy Theater.

The University will hold three other activities in Troy Theater on Monday to celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Day.

Dean of Students, Mike Kochka said, "Hanshi Davis brings a unique presentation on how African Americans have influenced the martials arts, not only in the United States, but throughout the world. He has traveled throughout the United States and has trained with some of the best martial artists in the world. Hanshi Davis encourages others that in order to make change in society, one has to help effect change."

Davis, a 10th Degree Black Belt, currently serves as the West Virginia state district director for the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) for karate, judo, and taekwondo. He and his staff also run three after-school martial arts training programs and summer martial arts programs in various West Virginia counties.

In recent years, he has worked with countless students at every level to teach martial arts, as well as instill values and self-awareness. Davis has given presentations and lectures on the subject at schools, colleges and universities across West Virginia.

Other activities at Wheeling University on Monday include:

Other activities at Wheeling University on Monday include:

• 10 a.m. - Dr. King Trivia at 10 a.m.
• 2:30 p.m. - Student panel "MLK and Our Campus"
• 6 p.m. - Viewing of "Selma" sponsored by Black Student Union