MLK Countywide Celebration

Photo of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Each year, the Cities of Champaign and Urbana come together with Champaign County, the Village of Rantoul, Parkland College and the University of Illinois to host a countywide celebration honoring the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. During the ceremony, community members are honored with prestigious awards in recognition of their work to uphold the principles and ideals of Dr. King.

2025 Award Recipients Speakers at the 2025 Countywide MLK Celebration.

  • Tracy Dace – James R. Burgess, Jr. – Susan Freiburg Humanitarian Award – Honors the humanitarian efforts of individuals who have contributed to the basic human dignity of  those in need.
  • Donna Tanner-Harold – Doris Hoskins Prestigious Community Service Award – Honors individuals who engage in improving the well-being of Champaign County.
  • Terry Townsend – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Outstanding Achievement Award -Honors individuals or organizations that work for social justice in the spirit of Dr. King.

MLK Jr. 2025 Living the Dream Scholarship Award Winners standing in a line on stage at the Krannert Center

Living the Dream Scholarship

Each year a pool of local high school seniors are awarded a $1,000 “Living the Dream” scholarship to use at a college of their choice. This scholarship is renewable for up to four years. The MLK Jr. Living the Dream scholarships are funded through tax-deductible donations from individuals, churches, synagogues, and businesses who share our passion for transforming the lives of young people through education. Click here to view the full list of 2025 winners and personal quotes!

Kids running around playing with a bounce house in background