Cultivating Connection, Creating Change • January 18 – 23, 2026
The MLK Jr. Week of Celebration is a celebration of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dating back to 1981, it is the longest-standing celebration of its kind by a university. Throughout the week, UNC students, staff, faculty, and the surrounding community engage in a series of events and speaking engagements, all with the shared mission of highlighting Dr. King’s eternal message of unity. The events are typically held around Dr. King’s birthday or the MLK holiday in January.
While today’s challenges differ from those of the past, this year’s theme, “Cultivating Connection, Creating Change,” reminds us that transformative change is possible through advocacy and collective care. By fostering meaningful connections and embracing shared responsibility, we honor the dignity and humanity of every individual in our vibrant Carolina community.
2026 Event Schedule
Hoops for Hunger Basketball Tournament
January 18th | 12 PM | Wollen Gym
Kick off the week of celebration with a little competition for a cause. Student teams will donate 5 cans per player to participate. All donations will go to the Carolina Cupboard.
Community Food Drive
January 19th | 11 AM – 1 PM | Graduate Student Center
Students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to donate nonperishable items. All donations will go to pantries in Carrboro and Chapel Hill.
Lecture and Awards Ceremony
January 20th | 6:30 PM | Hill Hall
Join us as we spotlight the recipients of the MLK Jr. and Harvey Beech scholarships and the Unsung Hero Awards.
Community Forum
January 22nd | 6:30 PM | Great Hall
Join us as we explore ways to cultivate change, foster connection, and carry on Dr. King’s legacy of unity and social progress. UNC students, faculty, and staff, and local community members are invited to participate.
Unity Event
January 23rd | 6 PM | Great Hall
Scholarships and Awards
These honors recognize UNC-Chapel Hill students, faculty, staff, and community partners who embody the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through academic achievement, community service, leadership, and the advancement of civil and human rights.
MLK Unsung Hero Award:
Applications for the 2026 Week of Celebration are now closed.
Recognizes a UNC-CH staff, faculty, community partner, or corporate affiliate who fosters a welcoming and inclusive community at Carolina through their everyday work and advocacy.
MLK UNC Student Scholarship:
Applications for the 2026 Week of Celebration are now closed.
Recognizes current juniors who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to advancing civil and human rights in the community.
Harvey Beech Scholarship:
Applications for the 2026 Week of Celebration are now closed.
Recognizes UNC-CH students who have:
- Academic GPA improvement from the previous academic year (semester or cumulative for one year)
- Contributions to campus life
- Demonstrated financial need (impact of scholarship)
Student Planning Committee
Applications for the 2026 Week of Celebration are now closed.
The student planning committee assists in planning and coordinating MLK Week of Celebration events, including:
- Unity Event
- Day of Service
- Lecture & Awards Ceremony
- and more!
All undergraduate, graduate, and professional UNC students are eligible to apply.