VUU Gathers Higher Education Leaders to Honor Dr. King at 47th MLK Breakfast
February 25, 2025
The air was electric at the Marriott Richmond Hotel on the morning of January 17, 2025, as hundreds gathered to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at Virginia Union University’s 47th Annual MLK Community Leaders Breakfast. This year’s event wasn’t just a celebration of Dr. King’s enduring impact—it was also a tribute to VUU’s 160 years of history and resilience.
As the doors opened, the hum of conversations filled the grand ballroom, and attendees, from students to seasoned community leaders, found their seats. The morning was steeped in reflection and a call to action as the community gathered to pay tribute to Dr. King’s work and continue his legacy.
A major highlight of the breakfast was the recognition of Virginia’s educational institutions, which play a crucial role in shaping the workforce and community leaders of tomorrow. The contributions of institutions like Bryant & Stratton College, Norfolk State University, University of Richmond, and ECPI University were celebrated, acknowledging their vital work in creating pathways to success for students from all backgrounds. Other notable institutions highlighted included Virginia Commonwealth University, Virginia State University, Hampton University, and J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College.
Governor Glenn Youngkin took the stage, his voice steady and thoughtful. “Every year, I’m struck by the trailblazers in this room,” he began, his words reverberating across the packed space. “If we can’t know where we are going, we must know where we have come from.” His speech carried a quiet strength, urging everyone to reflect on history’s lessons as a guide for the future.
Then came Dr. Roland Moore, Vice-Chair of the Board of Trustees at VUU, who brought a deeply personal and spiritual perspective to the gathering. “God transformed that jail space into the miracle of Lombardy,” he said, weaving a tale of faith’s ability to triumph over adversity. His words lingered in the air, evoking both reverence and hope.
But it was Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan who stole the spotlight. With poise and passion, she took the podium to address the crowd. “Virginia was the birthplace of American democracy, but we’re also the birthplace of American slavery,” she declared, her voice filled with conviction. “Every day, I walk in a building that may have been built by my ancestors. We’ve come a long way, but we still have a long way to go.”
Her words were a powerful reminder of the duality of Virginia’s history and the work that remains to fulfill Dr. King’s dream. “He gave us a blueprint,” she urged, “and we must intentionally undo the inequity.” The room was silent except for the soft hum of agreement—a collective commitment to continue the journey.
The breakfast wasn’t just an event; it was a moment—a moment to pause, reflect, and recommit to the ideals of equality, justice, and progress. Dr. Hakim J. Lucas, President of Virginia Union University, shared a message of unity and inspiration, noting, "While we celebrate the connectivity of our work to empower and to ensure that democracy really works, we can't do this without institutions called historically black colleges and universities. And so we celebrate them.”
Building on this sentiment, Dr. Lucas emphasized the enduring impact of these institutions, stating, “You can carve a legacy that allows you to stand and create change. Historically Black colleges and universities are critical to ensuring that the future of the City, the commonwealth, and our country is preserved for all.”
For decades, HBCUs like Virginia Union University, Hampton University, and Virginia State University have provided an empowering space for students from diverse backgrounds to thrive. These institutions serve as a launchpad for students to pursue careers in law, medicine, business, education, and beyond, creating a pipeline of highly skilled professionals who are equipped to drive change in their communities. Dr. King’s vision of equality and opportunity is alive and well in these institutions, where students are taught not only the value of education but the power they hold to challenge systemic injustices. The rich history of HBCUs in Virginia underscores the profound impact that these institutions continue to have on the social, economic, and political landscape of the state.
Dr. Danny Avula, newly elected Mayor of Richmond, shared a powerful reflection on the significance of Dr. King's vision in today’s context. "All of these experiences over two decades have formed me to see through different eyes. As I look at where we are as a city, I couldn't be more energized and proud to take the baton from my friend, Mayor Stoney, and I am committed to justice and equity for all." Mayor Avula continued by sharing "I couldn't be more proud and excited to do this with this incredible institution because of the story of VUU, growing up out of Lumpkin's jail, out of the Devil's Half Acre, and becoming this remarkable institution of higher education that has turned thousands upon thousands of brilliant people into the world."
The event saw an impressive turnout of over 500 guests, including students, faculty, community leaders, and supporters, all dedicated to advancing Dr. King’s work. Attendees left not only reflecting on his legacy but reinvigorated by a shared commitment to continue his mission, especially in DEI. Virginia’s HBCUs are at the forefront, shaping a future where every student, regardless of background, has the opportunity to achieve and lead.
The energy and unity of the morning served as a powerful reminder that Dr. King’s vision is not just an ideal but a living mission that continues to guide Virginia’s institutions and community leaders toward a more inclusive future.
A special thank you to our sponsors, whose generosity made this event and its mission possible. Presenting Sponsor: Dominion Energy. Additional sponsors include:
Silver Sponsors
- Wells Fargo
- McGuire Woods
- Sentara
Bronze Sponsors
- Altria
- Henrico County
- CarMax
- Media Tech
- Virginia State University
- University of Richmond
- Bon Secours
- Norfolk State University
- Former House Representative Abigail Spanberger
- Office of The Governor, Honorable Glenn Youngkin
Community Sponsors
- Bank of America
- Bivium Capital
- Bryant Stratton College
- C&F Mortgage
- City of Richmond
- City of Richmond Mayor's Office
- ECPI University
- Former Richmond School Board Representative Mariah White
- Fulton Bank
- Hampton University
- Office of the Commonwealth Attorney
- Reynolds Community College-Ann Bushey
- Richmond Education Fund
- Richmond International Airport
- Richmond Memorial Health Foundation
- Richmond Region Tourism
- Richmond VA Chapter of The Links
- Towne Bank
- Troutman Pepper Locke
- Trustee Carolyn Jacobs
As we celebrate and reflect on Dr. King's legacy, watch the Community Leaders CBS6 special produced by VUU Studios, in case you missed it! Enjoy this powerful broadcast as we highlight the honored higher educational institutions, hear from university presidents and students, and embrace meaningful moments from the event.