Clark State, local partners to host virtual MLK Day celebration

Eric Ellis, president and CEO of Integrity Development Corp., will be the keynote speaker at Clark State's annual Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration. CONTRIBUTED

Credit: Jerome Melson

Credit: Jerome Melson

Eric Ellis, president and CEO of Integrity Development Corp., will be the keynote speaker at Clark State's annual Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration. CONTRIBUTED

Clark State College, along with CareSource, the City of Springfield, Human Relations Board, Springfield City Schools and Wittenberg University, will host the 31st annual Martin Luther King, Jr. birthday celebration at 11:30 a.m. on Friday with a virtual event called Living The Dream, according to a release from the school.

“We continue to celebrate King Day to remember Martin Luther King for what he did to force the United States to face the evils of racism in his time,” said Warren Copeland, Springfield City Mayor. “However, we also celebrate this day in order to recognize racism in our place and time and commit ourselves to act in our time.”

Eric Ellis, president and CEO of Integrity Development Corp., will be the keynote speaker, who will speak on the topic: “Who am I leading? And to what destination?”

Ellis is recognized as one of the nation’s leading consultants and strategists on matters related to Diversity & Inclusion. His firm helps to build organizational cultures focused on Diversity, Inclusion and Respect flourish, according to the release.

He is recognized as the Minority Business of the Year in Ohio, the recipient of the NAACP President’s award and the author of the book “Diversity Conversations.”

“It is critical for the community to set aside time throughout the year, but especially as we reflect on the life and contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King, to assess where we are with respect to issues of racial and social justice,” Ellis said. “I am honored to have the opportunity to share my thoughts on the role personal leadership plays on our current and future success as a community and society.”

The annual Peacemaker Awards will be also presented to 12 local high school students who are being recognized for their ability to resolve conflict in a positive way and assist in bridging cultural and social differences within their schools.

“Clark State has supported the MLK celebration over the years to not only honor Dr. King and the incredible sacrifice he made for civil rights, but to help recognize students who are ensuring his legacy continues,” said Ronald Gordon, dean of enrollment. “Students who receive the Peacekeeper Award are sharing Dr. King’s message of equality for all through their daily actions and it is noticed by others.”

To register for this free event, visit https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5605570174875222029

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