College is a season when students begin forming their own values, often through conversations and experiences that challenge them to think more deeply about the world around them. Events like MLK Night of the Arts play an important role in that process, offering students not only historical context but also opportunities to practice listening, reflection, and community-building skills that are essential well beyond graduation.

MLK Night was a very special event to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and to help students think critically about how his message of justice, service, and community still matters today. This event was hosted by Geneva College in collaboration with the Multicultural Engagement Team. The event focused strongly on respectful dialogue, active listening, and thoughtful engagement rather than centering on debate or persuasion. MLK Night emphasized skills that are essential for students navigating diverse perspectives both during college and beyond.

MLK Night offered a rare moment to slow down and consider how Dr.King’s vision connects to our own lives, beliefs, and responsibilities as emerging adults. When students are exposed to structured dialogues, it can support cognitive and emotional growth by helping students develop empathy, critical thinking skills, and the ability to engage constructively with complex or sensitive topics. Having experiences like MLK Night contributes to a stronger sense of belonging, which is closely linked to students' well-being and persistence in college.

Another feature of MLK Night was the debut of City on a Hill, a new student contemporary Christian worship team. City on a Hill is committed to bringing students of different backgrounds together to engage in meaningful worship and community engagement.

City on a Hill provides an important continuation of the work begun at MLK Night. Rather than being a one-time experience, the group allows students to build relationships, practice listening across differences, and reflect on how values can be lived out in everyday campus life. For students who are still forming their perspectives, having a space that encourages curiosity, humility, and thoughtful conversation can be especially meaningful.

Events like MLK Night and initiatives such as City on a Hill reflect the College’s commitment to educating the whole student. By creating opportunities for dialogue, reflection, worship, and community, these experiences help students grow not only as scholars, but as thoughtful, engaged individuals preparing to navigate life well beyond college.

By Essie Hilton '28