Service is the theme of recent events at Glenville State College to commemorate the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

What could have been a mere history lesson has brought into the present with discussion and commentary on what Dr. King’s life stood for, and the continuing impact of his life in 2007.

Katie Murray, a GSC student, told the audience, “He lifted up the value of service as a mark of living a full life.”
The twin themes of the program were volunteer work and service to others.

Capturing the heart of the moment, GSC student Donte Fuller spontaneously quoted parts of King’s famous 'I Have a Dream' speech. He began by standing before the audience quietly saying, “Even though it’s not part of the program I’m going to say it anyway.”
There was little question Fuller felt the words as he said, “Free at last, free at last; thank God Almighty, we’re free at last!”

The audience felt those words as well.

Glenville State College President, Dr. Peter Barr, told those in attendance Dr. King was the most incredible man he has witnessed in his lifetime.

One of the changes President Barr would like to institute is a requirement for new students to perform a limited amount of volunteer work in the community. Barr is committed to the belief that education must thrive outside the classroom and move into the community where people can work together and make a difference.

King’s life, presenters said, was directed more toward thinking of others instead of 'the self.'
One example offered suggested many people may first think of ‘what will happen to me’ if they’re considering being vocal in support of others. While, in contrast, Dr. King would think, “what will happen to them if I don’t stand up and support a particular cause?”

GSC Education Professor Marcia Bolton spoke of the King Day of Service and Dr. King’s vision of bringing diverse groups of people together to work for a common goal. "It is a vision of living with the idea of having priorities greater than mere self interest." said Bolton.

Julie Becker of Hospice Care Corporation, locally headquartered in Burnsville in Braxton County, spoke about the importance of volunteering, and said many opportunities exist with the Hospice organization. Becker said assignments are varied and not limited to working with the terminally ill.
On January 27, Glenville State College student volunteers are scheduled to help Hospice Care Corporation set up a thrift store in Glenville.

Also speaking at the event was GSC Fitness Center Director Kipp Colvin, who organized the MLK candlelight vigil and ceremony with the assistance of the GSC Student Affairs staff. The GSC Chamber Singers also performed under the direction of Dr. Carol Benton.

The King celebration began with a brief outdoor candle-lighting ceremony in the Dora Heflin Garden and then continued in the President’s Auditorium in the GSC Heflin Administration Building.