This year marked the 26th anniversary of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration at Clemson University. Throughout the years, the celebration has continued to grow and hold an important place as a University celebration for the entire community.
The first student-organized Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Service was held at the University in January 1982. The student group, Men Interested in Alpha (MIA), worked with the Greenville graduate chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. to organize this commemorative observance at the newly renovated Tillman Hall Auditorium. In 1983, MIA group members became charter members of the Pi Alpha Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Over the years, the Pi Alpha Chapter has continued its involvement with Clemson’s Martin Luther King, Jr. observance.
Early speakers for the commemorative observance included Dr. Charles T. Battle, M.D., Seneca; the Rev. Sammy Jackson, pastor, St. James United Methodist Church, Seneca; the honorable Frank Gilbert, former S.C. state senator; the Rev. James O. Rich, pastor, St. Paul Baptist Church, Anderson; and Dr. Lewis Suggs, former professor of history at Clemson.
Each year the Clemson community pays tribute to Dr. King through a variety of special events.