Troy, N.Y. — To commemorate the life and honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute will host the 5th annual “Embrace the Dream” Diversity Week celebration with an opening ceremony and reception on Monday, Jan. 16. Rensselaer President Shirley Ann Jackson will discuss King’s legacy and its relevance today, in a speech kicking off a week-long series of events for Rensselaer students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community. The Jan. 16 program will also feature remarks and presentations by students, and music by the Bethel Baptist Church Gospel Choir of Troy. 

The programs scheduled from Jan. 17-21 will feature speeches, discussions, and community service projects.

On Thursday, Jan. 19, Herman Boone — who coached the 1971 Titan football team, following the integration of the school system in Alexandria, Va. — will speak to students, members of the Rensselaer campus, and the local community about “Remember the Titans: Lessons of Diversity and Unity.” Boone will tell his inspirational story captured in the Disney film “Remember the Titans.”

The events culminate on Saturday, Jan. 21, with members of the Rensselaer community participating in a community service project, “Math Counts,” to introduce Troy middle school students to fun activities to stimulate their interest in math.

Details:

Monday, Jan. 16, from 6 to 7 p.m. Diversity Week Opening Ceremony.

Academy Hall auditorium, corner of 15th Street and College Avenue.

**Rensselaer President Shirley Ann Jackson will give the keynote address.**

Thursday, Jan. 19, beginning at 7:30 p.m. UPAC Speakers Forum presents, Herman Boone

“Remember the Titans: Lessons of Diversity and Unity.” Darren Communications Center (DCC), room 308.

The events are organized by Rensselaer’s Community Advocates, the Dean of Students Office, the Office of the First-Year Experience, Residence Life, Institute Diversity and the Rensselaer Union.

Contact: Jessica Otitigbe
Phone: (518) 276-6050
E-mail: otitij@rpi.edu