Nearly 500 Walsh University students and staff honored the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. by participating in a Day of Service on Monday, January 20. This annual event, which marks the beginning of Walsh’s Human Dignity Week, sent volunteers to 18 locations on campus and throughout Stark County to engage in meaningful service projects.
The day began with breakfast at 8:00 a.m. in the Schervish Dining Centre, where attendees heard an inspiring message from Stark County Prosecutor Kyle Stone. Stone encouraged the volunteers to embrace their unique gifts, serve with love, and remain steadfast in their purpose.
“You don’t have to mimic Dr. King to support the dream. The vision God has given you belongs to you and you alone—walk out that vision and destiny with purpose,” said Stone. “Whatever and however you serve, do it in love—not for accolades, but for the well-being of others. Service should be our number one priority. Even the smallest act of kindness can make a difference in someone’s life. That’s how we connect to Dr. King’s dream: by staying true to ourselves, committing to the task at hand, and trusting that God will guide and protect us.”
Students performed a variety of service activities, including youth programming, sorting food donations, and grounds maintenance, at community sites such as:
Walsh University, where 100% of students participate in service during their time on campus, emphasizes servant leadership as a core value. This commitment was evident as students honored the legacy of Dr. King, a Walsh University honorary doctorate recipient, by engaging in acts of kindness and solidarity.
Human Dignity Week, held January 20–26, invites the Walsh community to reflect on themes of justice, equality, and service. Highlights include:
An MLK Essay Contest with over 30 submissions. Winners were announced during the Day of Service breakfast, with scholarships of $1,000 (Mallory Mertic), $500 (Jada Diaz), and $500 (Nathan Ross) awarded to the top three essays demonstrating grace, dignity, and respect in action.
The Blouin Scholar Human Dignity and Poverty Awareness Event
A March for Life Trip to Washington, D.C.
Men’s and Women’s basketball games against Malone University
“As a Catholic university, we are called to foster servant leaders who dedicate themselves to making a difference in their communities,” said Walsh University President Dr. Tim Collins. “This week allows us to honor Dr. King’s legacy and reflect on how we can continue his mission of dignity, respect, and love for others.”
