Xavery Hopkins, M.P.H., M.B.A.
Staff Winner- Senior Director of Access, Opportunity, and Community Engagement; Darla Moore School of Business
The University of South Carolina honors the life of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
In January 1983, the USC Black Alumni Caucus sponsored the first university program. The group continued to sponsor the event, held in Rutledge Chapel, until 1986. In 1986, the program was expanded and moved to the Russell House Ballroom featuring King’s daughter, Yolanda King, as keynote speaker. In 1999, then-President John M. Palms cancelled classes and declared the day a university-wide day of service, and that tradition continues today.
MLK Commemorative Breakfast
Friday, Jan. 15, 2027, 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.
Location: Russell House Ballroom, 1400 Greene St, Columbia, SC 29208
Admission: Free and open to the public
Join us on Friday, January 15, 2027, from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Russell House Ballroom, 1400 Greene Street, Columbia, SC 29208. In these times of both challenge and promise, this gathering serves as a powerful reminder of Dr. King's vision of the "beloved community" – a vision that remains as vital today as ever.
We are privileged to welcome Dr. Bobby J. Donaldson as our keynote speaker. Dr. Donaldson is a Professor of History and Executive Director of the Center for Civil Rights History and Research at the University of South Carolina, where his scholarship focuses on Southern history and African American life and culture. He also leads Columbia SC 63, an initiative dedicated to documenting and sharing the history of the struggle for civil rights and social justice in Columbia and throughout South Carolina
This free event represents more than just a breakfast – it is an opportunity to strengthen the bonds within our community and recommit ourselves to the work of creating a more just and equitable society. Your presence and participation will help make this vision a reality.
The deadline to register for this event is January 4th. Please register below to secure your place at this important gathering. Free parking will be available in the Bull Street Garage. Enter at gate 3 (visitor entrance).
Questions may be directed to the Office of Access and Opportunity at MLKBreakfastUSC@sc.edu or call 803-576-7666.
Register Below
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