Feature Stories

University News | January 17, 2022

 

As the nation honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.— one of integrity, service, leadership, and unity, along with an inspiring commitment to social justice—Virginia Wesleyan, too, celebrated Dr. King’s legacy with a virtual commemoration ceremony on campus on January 17.

 

The event began with an opening prayer offered by Rev. R. Perez Gatling, pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church. VWU Assistant Professor of Political Science, Dr. Modupe Oshikoya, then introduced the event’s keynote speaker, Dr. Veleka S. Gatling, director for diversity initiatives at Old Dominion University.

 

Dr. Gatling shared strategies for navigating during times of challenge and controversy and introduced the concept of “visible equity,” a term she coined in a recent article she published in the Journal of the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development. 

 

“To achieve ‘visible equity,’ we must humanize members of our communities of practice in ways that respect and acceptance are the norm and not just a cliché,” noted Dr. Gatling. “Then we must demonstrate respect by seeking and understanding and treating them as they desire, not as we desire, even when navigating challenging times.”

 

After Dr. Gatling’s remarks, VWU Trustee and Alumna Mavis McKenley ’11, presented the award named in her honor, to this year’s student recipient. 

 

“The award seeks students who exemplify the ideals of Martin Luther King, Jr.,” said McKenley, “including courage and conviction in valuing differences; commitment to seeing beyond borders by building inclusion; compassion for humanity; and commitment to social change.”

 

The 2022 Mavis McKenley ’11 Award, was presented to VWU senior Erin Highsmith ’22. Highsmith was celebrated for her active engagement in service activities both on and off campus since her arrival at VWU. She is active with student organizations, Marlin athletics, and has worked in various positions on campus. She has also helped the community with voter registration and civic engagement education. She has plans after graduation that include pursuing a position in the legal field, ideally working with the American Civil Liberties Union to help fight for “the little man.”

 

President Scott D. Miller joined McKenley in presenting the award and delivered closing remarks, thanking those participating in the event.

 

“May we renew our commitment to social action, inclusiveness and justice each day, as Dr. King did,” said Dr. Miller. “May we honor his work with progress of our own and celebrate new voices that in their own way will inspire us to meet the challenges we continue to confront.”