Stevens' 2025 MLK Week of Service: A Tribute Through Action and Reflection
Stevens dedicated a week to service, education and reflection, advancing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision of justice, equality and a “beloved community”
Stevens honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by dedicating a week this January to service and reflection. Stretching across campus, the event sparked participation from 825 students, faculty, staff and alumni in meaningful community service, educational programs and discussions centered on King’s vision for justice, equality and a “beloved community.” By extending the observance from a single day to a full week, Stevens reinforced its commitment to lasting change both on campus and in the Hoboken community.
The MLK Week of Service included 35 service projects that were aimed at addressing particular community needs. Volunteers prepared meals and hygiene kits for the Hoboken Shelter, sewed “cuddle hearts” for the local NICU, helped organize the Hoboken Public Library and wrote letters to elderly community members. Student volunteers also shared their expertise with potential future Ducks in the local school system as they led hands-on lessons at both Elysian Charter School and Hoboken Charter School.
“Seeing so many volunteers come together to make a positive impact on both our local and global communities was truly inspiring," said Liliana Delman, director of student culture and belonging and MLK Week of Service coordinator. “I’m excited to see how we can make next year even better.”
Related campus activities like the AI Literacy Workshops and Hackathon, sponsored by Stevens' College of Professional Education, brought together students, faculty and staff to create innovative solutions to social challenges. Participants harnessed technical skills to address issues such as access to education, healthcare and civic engagement — core values in King’s fight for equality.
The Oratorical Contest, which received 24 submissions, offered four student winners the opportunity to deliver personal reflections on King’s legacy.
Complementary educational programming, including a screening and post-film discussion of the 2014 historical drama Selma, encouraged critical exploration of not only King’s legacy but also of how Stevens can continue to play an impactful role in the local community.
Keynote speakers Jonathan L. Allen, co-founder and director of development at Leadership Brainery, and New Jersey State Senator Angela McKnight shared their expertise promoting access to education and the ongoing fight for social justice in New Jersey and across the country.
The week culminated with a community gathering to celebrate the collective efforts of all those who contributed to the week and reflect on the work still needed to create positive, lasting change.