The MLK Countywide Committee and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Advocacy for Justice Committee are pleased to announce the names of those being honored at the 25th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Countywide Celebration on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Three community members will be honored with a prestigious award in recognition of their work to uphold the principles and ideals of Dr. King, including:
- Dr. Jeffery Trask – James R. Burgess, Jr./Susan Freiburg Humanitarian Award
- Dr. Stephanie Cockrell – Doris Hoskins Prestigious Community Service Award
- Martel Miller – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Outstanding Achievement Award
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Countywide Celebration will take place at Krannert Center for the Performing Arts (500 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana) on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Doors open at 4:00 p.m. and the event starts at 5:00 p.m. This year’s featured keynote speaker is State Representative Carol Ammons.
The MLK Countywide Committee and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Advocacy for Justice Committee looks forward to continuing to recognize the commitment of community members, while also honoring the significant contributions to civil and human rights practiced by Dr. King.
The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Countywide Celebration is sponsored by the City of Champaign, City of Urbana, Champaign County, Parkland College, University of Illinois, and the Village of Rantoul. For more information, please visit: MLK Countywide Celebration – City of Champaign.