MLK Day 2026

MLK 2026: Linked in Hope, Purpose and Achievement

Join us in commemorating the life and enduring impact of Martin Luther King, Jr. as we come together as one Bentley community. This enriching day of learning is accessible to all members of our community and features a milestone 40th annual MLK Breakfast followed by innovative learning sessions.

MLK 2026: Linked in Hope, Purpose and Achievement is on Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at Bentley University.

Register Today!

Register for this year's event on Tuesday, January 27. Once you register, remember to download the app and select your sessions for the day.

Register

Submit a Nomination

The Dr. Earl L. Avery MLK Leadership Award is given each year to a member of the Bentley community whose work has been consistent with the ideals of Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy of building inclusivity and opportunity for all identities. Nominations are due by Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

Nominate

Download a Zoom Background

If you are interested in an MLK Day Themed Zoom Background, please download here.

Download

The MLK Day Tradition

Rooted in Bentley’s Core Values, this day encourages every member of our community to show up authentically, listen openly, and learn from one another across lines of difference. It is a moment to honor Dr. King not only in words, but in the way we live out the values that define us. 

Through dialogue, the arts, storytelling, and shared experiences, we reaffirm our commitment to making meaningful change—together. We recognize the strength in our diversity and the power of our voices to move Dr. King's vision forward within Bentley and beyond our campus. We strive to continuously learn to build and live out Dr. King’s idea of Beloved Community.

What to Expect

Talks and Panels

Discussions on topical issues relating to racial and social justice including papers, research and student essays. 

Workshops

Sessions on how to improve inclusive teaching and learning, provide space for storytelling, develop skills for brave conversations and racial healing, and explore other topics related to racial and social justice. 

Performances and Exhibitions

Music, dance, video, theater, and art.

Drop-in Spaces

Stations designated for making art, safe reflection, service activities and resources for self-care, wellbeing and continued learning. 

Past Celebrations

2024 MLK Day

Bentley University’s 2024 MLK Day of Social Justice featured a keynote from Dr. Anthony Jack, student reflections, and sessions exploring racial justice, healing, and inclusion. The day concluded with a conversation on tech bias and equity led by Candice Morgan of Google Ventures and a community art experience with Artist-in-Residence Andromeda Lisle.

2025 Celebrating Legacy: Bentley Honors Martin Luther King Jr.

Bentley University’s 2025 MLK Day of Social Justice began with the 39th annual MLK Breakfast, themed “Action for Justice,” and opened with a community reading of Dr. King’s Nobel Peace Prize speech. Students, alumni, faculty, and staff gathered at “The Embrace” monument in Boston to honor Dr. King and Coretta Scott King.