As the nation reflects on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Old Dominion University is preparing to host his youngest child, Bernice A. King, to share her vision for advancing social justice and equality.

The 40th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Observance takes place 6:30 p.m. Jan. 28 at at Chartway Arena in Norfolk.

The event is free and open to the public. It was rescheduled from a planned appearance in 2024.

King, an attorney and author, serves as CEO of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Non-violent Social Change. Founded by her mother, Coretta Scott King, the center serves as the official memorial to her father. 

“Old Dominion University is truly honored to welcome Dr. Bernice King to learn how we can build upon the legacies of her parents, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King, both in our daily efforts and through our important mission of teaching, research and service,” said President Brian O. Hemphill.

Under her leadership, The King Center has launched initiatives reaching more than 500,000 people worldwide. King developed Nonviolence365, a certification program in the Kingian philosophy of nonviolence, and serves as an instructor for the course.

In 2013, she led “Let Freedom Ring,” commemorating the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, where her father delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech. Participants included former presidents, members of Congress and other dignitaries.

Her accolades include the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Phoenix Award and the Atlanta Business Chronicle Lifetime Achievement Award for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. King is the author of “Hard Questions, Hard Answers” and the children’s book “It Starts with Me.” .

The observance will include the presentation of ODU’s Hugo Owens Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Award, which recognizes contributions to civil rights, politics, housing and social programs. Hugo Owens, a civil rights leader, was the first African American rector of ODU’s Board of Visitors.