You engage in selfless acts of kindness every day: students lifting each other up when the going gets rough, faculty and staff extending themselves to support our students and one another, QU faculty, students and staff offering critical services in neighboring communities, and generations of Bobcats who have bettered their communities. This generosity of spirit is the embodiment of Dr. King's powerful belief that "everybody can be great, because everybody can serve" — from his 1968 sermon, “The Drum Major Instinct.”

There are many big and small ways in which we show that we care, whether through unseen gestures of goodwill to someone in need, volunteer activities that routinely fill unmet needs, mentorship that helps others find their way, or by striving to understand and learn from individuals with different lived experiences. MLK Day is a reminder of the ideals to which we can aspire, year-round.

Later this month, we will celebrate Dream Week 2025 (January 26-February 1) featuring several MLK-inspired events, including a conversation on January 30 with the Rev. Ronald English who was Dr. King’s ministerial assistant at Ebenezer Baptist Church. In the spring, our students will organize the annual Big Event involving over a thousand Bobcat volunteers delivering much-needed services throughout neighboring communities. And every day, whether through organized club activities or just because we care, we have the power to lift others.

This Monday and throughout the year, let us strive to follow Dr. King's life lessons of care, kindness, and service unto others. We will be better for that and we will strengthen the fabric of communities.

My best,
Judy