Methodist University students at MLK Brunch

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., more than 20 Methodist University students, staff and faculty – including MU President Stanley T. Wearden and multiple presidential cabinet members – joined the Fayetteville Cumberland County Ministerial Council (FCCMC) for its 30th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Prayer Brunch at the Crown Expo Center on Monday.

“The time is always right to do what is right.”

Not only is Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. well known for his inspiring and powerful messages, but even more importantly, he dedicated his entire life to service and advocation for some of our world’s most pressing issues such as racial justice, economic equality, affordable housing and labor rights. This Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Methodist University invites the community not only to recognize King’s lasting impact, but to reflect on how his actions influence us to this day.

In honor of King, more than 20 Methodist University students, staff and faculty – including MU President Stanley T. Wearden and multiple presidential cabinet members – joined the Fayetteville Cumberland County Ministerial Council (FCCMC) for its 30th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Prayer Brunch at the Crown Expo Center today. In addition to attendance, MU was proud to be a gold sponsor of the well-respected event that brought more than a thousand people from the Fayetteville area.

Methodist University MLK brunch
Methodist University students, staff, and faculty including President Stanley Wearden (center) attended the 30th annual MLK Brunch.

“When I think about Methodist University sponsoring and participated in the brunch, the statement, ‘Either be generous or be selfish’ enters my mindset. Methodist University will continue to be part of the positive change of the world,” said Dr. Quincy Malloy, MU’s chief diversity officer. “Our participation is directly related to Dr. King’s message that everyone must decide whether they will walk in the light of creative altruism or in the darkness of destructive selfishness,”

Tajze Johnson, who is in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program at MU and president of the university’s graduate chapter of the Black Student Union, was one of the students who took part in the event.

“Martin Luther King Jr. emphasized the importance of diversity,” said Johnson. “Honoring Dr. King alongside my MU peers allowed me to make intentional efforts toward equal opportunities for minority populations.”

William Walker grace MLK brunch
Methodist University Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Students Dr. William Walker presents grace prior to brunch at the annual event.

Today’s brunch featured Dr. Eric Mansfield – an ear, nose and throat specialist and former state senator – as the keynote speaker, worship service, and a variety of other speakers.

Ranked as the No. 1 most diverse university in North Carolina, participation in this event is just one of the opportunities the University highlights throughout the year to encourage diversity, equity and inclusion. Stay up to date with future events by visiting our Events Calendar.