Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. - MSU Office for Inclusion and ...

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Student Leadership Conference 2015

“Breaking Barriers, Crossing Borders, & Building Bridges”

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Conference Chair Biographies ............................................ 2
Featured Speaker Biographies ............................................ 4
Conference Schedule (High School) ................................... 6
Conference Schedule (College)........................................... 7
Workshop Descriptions ...................................................... 8
Resource Fair Partners ..................................................... 14
2015 MLK Commemorative Events................................... 15
2015 MLK Student Leadership Committee ....................... 16
The MLK Endowed Scholarship Program .......................... 16

PARTICIPATING HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Michigan State University would like to welcome all participants to this year’s Student Leadership
Conference. Please take full advantage of the wealth of knowledge and resources you will come across today.
We have designed a conference program specifically for you! The high school student conference sessions are
clearly marked and carefully selected to maximize your potential success and development! If you have any
questions regarding your participation as a high school student in the conference, please visit registration tables.

Chair Biographies

Cassondra Church is 21 years old and from the small town of Allegan,
Michigan. Cassondra has served as the Co-Chair of the MLK student
planning committee for the past two years and enjoys bringing the
community together for such an important day of celebration. She is
a graduating senior pursuing a Bachelors degree in Interdisciplinary
Studies with a cognate in Government Advocacy and a concentration
in Psychology. She is also minoring in Women and Gender Studies and
specializing in American Indian Studies. During her time at Michigan
State University she has worked closely with various multicultural
organizations, such as the North American Indigenous Student
Organization, Sista 2 Sista, the Council of Racial and Ethnic Students
Cassondra Church (CORES) and the Council of Progressive Students (COPS) all dedicated to
promoting equality and diversity awareness. Cassondra is also a proud citizen of the Pokagon
Band of Potawatomi Indians. In addition to her work at Michigan State University, Cassondra
has been very involved with her tribe serving as the secretary for the Senior Youth Council and
representing her tribe on the national level as the Co-Vice President of the National Congress
of American Indians Youth Commission. Cassondra's passions for diversity inclusiveness,
equality, and youth advocacy continue to drive her to do what she loves while creating
positive change in the world.

My name is Laura Collier and I am a junior at Michigan State

University. I am a member of the Residential College in Arts and

Humanities with a minor in Spanish. As a co-chair for this year’s

Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Conference, I have had the

opportunity to collaborate with other talented student leaders on

this campus. This year’s conference is especially important as we

Laura Collier celebrate the closing of Project 60/50. Due to recent events
revolving around civic and social justice, we as students have a

unique opportunity to use this conference as a starting point for important dialogue. It is my

hope that everyone will leave this year’s conference wishing to further these conversations as

well as become student leaders in their own rights to expand upon the legacy of Dr. Martin

Luther King Jr. at Michigan State University.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the
world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead

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Chair Biographies

My name is Stephanie Beavers. I am a junior here at Michigan

State University, pursuing an undergraduate degree in

Advertising with a specialization in Design. Through my

involvement in community service projects and memberships

with NAACP and Righteous Movement I try to be an active

member within the MSU community. During my time here at

MSU I have been introduced to many groups and

organizations dedicated to fighting different injustices around

the world. While they all fight for their specific causes I

realized a common goal among most for peace and justice for

Stephanie Beavers all people. I am honored to serve as a Co-Chair to this year's
Martin Luther King Jr. Leadership Conference and continuing

to voice that goal and celebrate the beautiful differences that make us all unique. It is my hope

that you are inspired and motivated and my challenge that you leave this conference keeping

the momentum and doing what you can to fight for equality and making this world better.

Tao Sun My name is Tao Sun. I am from China, sophomore, major is undecided.
As a former MRULE (Multi Racial Unity living Experience) student leader
and an ICA in MSU, the different life experiences make me think the
privilege I get in my life and the struggle of some minority students for
equality of human rights and bringing awareness of racism in America.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is a world icon of social justice. Over 60 years
ago, he put a seed of equal rights dream for all human beings and then,
there are many generations contribute their life to help establish a
more equitable social environment. But there is still a long way to go. If
there is no one want to help make our society get better. The society
will not change by itself. It is on us to take our responsibility to help
build a better society system for everyone to help every individual’s
dreams of life can have more space to come true in this country. As a
Chinese international student, it is my honor to help make this year MLK
event happen. We are one community as human beings and please
keep in mind, love and peace is in our mind and we can make this world
better by help each other.

“We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our
community... Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of

others, for their sakes and for our own.” - Cesar E. Chavez

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Dr. Denise B. Maybank Keynote Speaker

Denise B. Maybank, a native of New York City, is the Vice President for
Student Affairs and Services at Michigan State University. She is a student
advocate focused on promoting learning outcomes while sustaining
engaged student experiences.
Her career achievements span the areas of administration, consultation,
counseling and education – including teaching graduate courses
internationally. Dr. Maybank has a doctoral degree in Counseling and
School Psychology from Michigan State University, a master's degree in
Educational Administration from Columbia University - Teachers College,
and a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the City University
of New York - Brooklyn College. Prior to returning to her alma mater, she
held the position of Associate to the President at the University of
Nebraska – Central Administration. Additionally, Dr. Maybank has served
on the faculty or as an administrator at University of Medicine and
Dentistry of New Jersey – School of Osteopathic Medicine, The College of
New Jersey and the University of Nebraska - Omaha.
A member of various professional and civic organizations, Dr. Maybank
has held a variety of offices on boards of directors, councils, coalitions and
committees through which she has had the opportunity to serve others.

Student Speaker

My name is Kenya Abbott Jr. I am a fifth year, graduating senior majoring
in Journalism and Sociology with a specialization in African American and
African Studies. Becoming involved in numerous organizations at Michigan
State University has inspired me to take on many endeavors that involve
both education and students. Some of these organizations or groups
include; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, black caucus, the
Advantage, Black Student Alliance, MLK Planning Committee, African
American and African Studies office, and Associated Students of MSU. I
am highly encouraged and humbled to be one of the keynote student
speakers, hoping to engage students and inspire. As a young black woman
from Oak Park, Michigan, and being involved in both my home community
as well as the university community, I seek to challenge institutions to not
only create opportunities but to develop better leaders of tomorrow. It is imperative that student
voices are continuously heard and that student leaders are enriching these same motives to mentor
and develop young people as well. This Martin Luther King Jr. Student Leadership Conference has
enabled many students on campus to not only become involved but to join together in experiencing
great messages and to learn from one another. I am grateful and excited to continue to not only share
my own experiences, but to have the same opportunity to grow and learn. As King states, “The
ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where
he stands at times of challenge and controversy” –King. It’s time for us to stand up, as one.

“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
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Student Speakers

Thaddeus Stegall is a native of Sharpsburg, GA. He attended Florida A&M
University (FAMU) as a music education student. Thaddeus excelled
academically and socially at FAMU. He served as percussion rank sergeant,
university band chaplain and vice president of the National Association for
Music Education. He also served as Field Commander (Formerly known as
Drum Major) for the World Renown FAMU Marching “100”, student
ambassador for the College of Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities and
President of the National Association for Music Education. In the spring of
2014 Thaddeus graduated (Magna Cum Laude) from FAMU with a Bachelor
of Science in Music Education with a k-12 Music Teacher certification.

Thaddeus is co-founder and president of Shaping Extraordinary Lives for

the Future, Inc. (SELF, Inc.). SELF, Inc. is a non-profit organization founded

in 2011 that believes in utilizing a holistic approach in advancing the

Thaddeus Stegall community by mentoring and empowering youth in spirituality, education,
lasting health, and friendships. His professional memberships include The

National Association for Music Education, The National Education

Association, The Florida Music Educator’s Association, Phi Sigma Theta National Honor Society, Phi

Delta Kappa International Education Association, National Society of Collegiate Scholars, Kappa Delta Pi

International Honor Society in Education, Pi Lambda Theta International Education Honor Society, and

the National Association for Student Personnel Administrators.

Thaddeus is currently a Master’s student in the Student Affairs Administration Program at Michigan
State University. Thaddeus also serves as an Assistant Community Director in Hibbard Hall.

RaKala Cosley is a 3rd year Education Student, here at Michigan State

University. She is an alumnus of both Detroit Renaissance High School, and

the Midnight Golf Program, both of which prepared her for becoming a

Spartan, and avid student leader. During her time at Michigan State she has

worked to promote leadership, scholarship, and social awareness among

students of color. This is her second year, serving amongst astonishing

student leaders and prominent community figures on the planning

committee for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Student Leadership Celebration

Conference. Beyond her involvement as a chair member on the committee,

she also serves as the President of the Midnight Golf Program Alumni

Association. As the President of MGPAA she works closely with other

student leaders to facilitate programs that empower, enlighten, and

advance the student body through a commit to service. It is important to

her to have individuals identify their passion, and to recognize that they

Rakala Cosley hold the power within themselves to be their own hero. RaKala says, “I
want people to understand that everyone is not a leader and that that is

okay because more important than leadership is the ability to be an active and passionate follower. To

my leaders, I want to relay the message to be genuine in their endeavors, to empower people, and to

inspire change.”

“You must be the change you wish to see in the world.” - Mahatma Gandhi

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High School Conference Schedule Location

8:30 Registration Opens

9:00 Resource Fair Opens (2nd Flr) & On-Site Service Learning Projects Start (Rm 50, Ground Flr) Concourse & Room 50
10:00 Center for Service Learning & Civic Engagement + Community Org's Ballroom (2nd Floor)
10:50 High School - Future Spartans Session (Required for High School) Concourse (2nd Floor)
MSU Office of Admissions, Florensio Hernandez & Terence Brown
Resource Fair Closes

11:00 Conference Welcome/Overview & Community Discussion Ballroom
Community Conversation & Facilitated Discussion on the Rights of People

12:00 Lunch & Speakers Ballroom
MSU President, Lou Anna K. Simon
Rakala Cosely, MSU Undergraduate Student
Kenya Abbott Jr., MSU Undergraduate Student
Thaddeus Steggall, MSU Graduate Student

1:00- 1:50 Workshop Session 1 (Required for High School) Ballroom
Youth on Fire - Peace & Prosperity Youth Action Movement & Social Justice Competition

2:00 - 2:50 Workshop Session 2 (Choose One) Ballroom
Civil Rights vs. Black Power Lake Huron (3rd Flr)
Empowering YOUth: Engaging Youth in Social and Political Change Lake Superior (3rd Flr)
Battle for Earth: Strategy & Tactics in the Environmental Justice Movement Lake Ontario (3rd Flr)
Your Body, Our Temple MSU Room (3rd Flr)
Soul Gallery Lake Michigan (3rd Flr)
Bias Busters: Building Bridges One Question at a Time Lake Erie (3rd Flr)
The Roots of Non-Violence: Interfaith's Role in Changing the World Room 36 (Ground Flr)
“That’s So Ghetto” - Investigating the Evolution of Ghettos MCC Multipurpose Rm (2nd Flr)
A Change Is Gonna Come Room 40 (Ground Flr)
Civic Engagement & Political Activism for 2015 MCC Conference Rm (2nd Flr)
The Multicultural Dialog

3:00 Keynote Speaker Dr. Denise Maybank (VP for Student Affairs and Services) Ballroom

3:10 Commemorative March Program Ballroom
Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity Inc.— Tyler Clifford & Keyon Clinton Ballroom

3:30 March For Justice Begins From MSU Union Ballroom to Beaumont Tower

4:00 MSU Museum Exhibits Program MSU Museum

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College Conference Schedule

8:30 Registration Opens Location
9:00
10:50 Resource Fair Opens & On-Site Service Learning Projects Start (Rm 50) Concourse & Room 50
Center for Service Learning & Civic Engagement + Community Org's
Resource Fair Closes Concourse (2nd Floor)

11:00 Conference Welcome/Overview & Community Discussion Ballroom
12:00 Community Conversation & Facilitated Discussion on the Rights of People
Lunch & Speakers Ballroom
MSU President, Lou Anna K. Simon
Rakala Cosely, MSU Undergraduate Student Lake Huron (3rd Flr)
Kenya Abbott Jr., MSU Undergraduate Student MSU Room (3rd Flr)
Thaddeus Steggall, MSU Graduate Student Lake Ontario (3rd Flr)
Lake Superior (3rd Flr)
1:00- 1:50 Workshop Session 1 (Choose One) Room 40 (Ground Flr)
Lake Erie (3rd Flr)
Race is Always a Factor: Inclusive Leadership Practices for College Student Leaders Lake Michigan (3rd Flr)
Breaking Boundaries: Black Women in Social Movements Across the Globe Room 36 (Ground Flr)
Ignite - People, Ideas, & Companies that inspire Positive Change
Police Brutality Ballroom
Power, Privilege, and ME Lake Huron (3rd Flr)
Future of Our Children Lake Superior (3rd Flr)
Lake Ontario (3rd Flr)
2:00 - 2:50 Hunger Pains MSU Room (3rd Flr)
Appropriate or Appropriation: Critiquing Consumption of Cultural Customs Lake Michigan (3rd Flr)
Workshop Session 2 (Choose One) Lake Erie (3rd Flr)
Civil Rights vs. Black Power Room 36 (Ground Flr)
Empowering YOUth: Engaging Youth in Social and Political Change MCC Multipurpose Rm (2nd Flr)
Room 40 (Ground Flr)
Battle for Earth: Strategy & Tactics in the Environmental Justice Movement MCC Conference Rm (2nd Flr)

Your Body, Our Temple Ballroom
Soul Gallery
Ballroom
Bias Busters: Building Bridges One Question at a Time
Ballroom
The Roots of Non-Violence: Interfaith's Role in Changing the World
MSU Museum
“That’s So Ghetto” - Investigating the Evolution of Ghettos
A Change Is Gonna Come
Civic Engagement & Political Activism for 2015
The Multicultural Dialog

3:00 Keynote Speaker Dr. Denise Maybank (VP for Student Affairs and Services)

3:10 Commemorative March Program
Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity Inc.— Tyler Clifford & Keyon Clinton

3:30 March For Justice Begins From MSU Union Ballroom to Beaumont Tower

4:00 MSU Museum Exhibits Program

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Workshop Descriptions

“Future Spartans High School Session”
10:00 am – 10:50 am -- Ballroom – (High School Students Required)
Panelists: Current MSU Students
A panel of MSU students will share their personal experiences with being a student at a major university. Personal
testimonies will include challenges the students face and ways in which they deal with their challenges. They will also
share strategies on best student practices that have worked for them in terms of maintaining academic success through
productive study skills and techniques, stressing the importance of attending classes and interacting with faculty, being
proactive and aware of and seeking assistance from university support systems and suggest ways to balance academic life
with a social life while at college. Included will be a presentation by a representative from the Office of Admissions at
MSU.

"Youth on Fire — Follow the Leader" Youth Collective Organizing, Community Engagement, and Social Responsibility

1:00 p.m.—1:50 p.m. — Ballroom — (High School Students Required & Open to College Students)

Presenters: Dennis Artis, Jerrisa Owens, Kallie Owens, Analia Whitehead, Adam Williams, Angela Waters Austin

The students of the Peace and Prosperity Youth Action Movement (PPYAM) will present a workshop by engaging the

audience through an interactive leadership activity. This activity will challenge attendees to critically think about who they

are as leaders and shape their leadership styles. PPYAM students will use research and descriptions of various types of

leaders, such as Martin Luther King Jr., Mother Theresa, Hitler, Malcolm X, etc., without revealing who they are and the

audience gets to decide whom they want to follow. The goal of PPYAM follows this year’s theme and then some: Crossing

Borders, Breaking Barriers, and Building Bridges. The goal of PPYAM is to motivate young people to become active

participants in their communities. Through involvement with the group, youth become empowered both individually and

as a collective to become leaders in various projects. In this interactive workshop, PPYAM students encourage the

audience to think outside of the box, think beyond their own borders, and cross their own bridges to reach a place that

they have not been before. www.ppyam.org

"Race is Always a Factor: Inclusive Leadership Practices for College Student Leaders”
1:00 p.m.—1:50 p.m. — Lake Huron — (Open to College Students Only)
Presenter: Alex Lange
College student leaders have historically been the greatest agents for change in U.S. society. From the Student Nonviolent
Coordinating Committee to the Gay Liberation Front to the National Organization for Women, college student leaders
have helped to create and facilitate positive social change. However, none of these groups are absolved of their place in
perpetuating systems of oppression while also trying to dismantle others. In this presentation, we will discuss how to be a
leader advocating for change can be inclusive in an intersectional manner. We will discuss ways of addressing racism,
homophobia/heterosexism, and sexism/genderism in leadership of student organizations. As Audre Lorde also said,
“there is no such thing as a single-issue struggle because we do not live single-issue lives.”

"Breaking Boundaries: Black Women in Social Movements Across the Globe”
1:00 p.m.—1:50 p.m. — MSU Room — (Open to College Students Only)
Presenter: Patrice D. Wright
Black Women are often absent from the narrative of social movements. The purpose of this presentation would be to
showcase the important contributions that Black women have made to various social movements across the globe.
Women will be showcased for being the architects of strategy as well as their influence on policy. The struggles many
Black Women faced serving in leadership will also be a point of instruction. Social movements highlighted will include;
abolition of slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, The Black Power Movement, and the struggle against Apartheid.

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Workshop Descriptions

"Ignite - People, Ideas, & Companies that Inspire Positive Change”
1:00 p.m.—1:50 p.m. — Lake Ontario — (Open to College Students Only)
Presenter: Noah Saperstein
In k-12 education we are often told that “we, the people” have the power to create change. We look to the Civil Rights
Movement and the Anti-War Movement as examples of the people being able to come together and change the system.
MSU has a similar history of the community coming together and creating change, but often not the change we hoped
for. This workshop will use discussion and small groups to look at various forms of activism at MSU and examine the
system as whole. Perhaps, this system isn’t designed to be changed…

"Police Brutality”
1:00 p.m.—1:50 p.m. — Lake Superior — (Open to College Students Only)
Presenters: Manisha Munasinghe , Evan Stivers , Michael Robinson - Multi-Racial Unity Living Experience (MRULE)
Our group aims at focusing on increasing levels of police brutality within the United States. We hope that through this
conversation participants will be able to understand what classifies as police brutality, who is predominantly the victims
of police brutality, and we can counteract it. Through this conversation, we hope to touch on how police brutality in the
modern day is similar, or different, from brutality back during the Civil Right’s Movement. Additionally, we hope to
discuss less recognized aspects of police brutality, and possibly talk about microagressions within the justice system. By
discussing these topics, we want participants to think about the effect the police force can have in helping, or hurting,
minority groups.

"Power, Privilege, and ME”
1:00 p.m.—1:50 p.m. — Room 40, Ground Floor — (Open to College Students Only)
Presenters: Lazarius Miller, Timothy Stark
The purpose of this workshop is to define what power and privilege is as well as for attendees to identify the privileges
they possess. The workshop will also provide a safe space and an opportunity for attendees to self reflect on how
privilege may have influenced their views of themselves, people, and society as a whole. In honor of the 60/50 Project,
this workshop is expected to assist attendees break down barriers through vulnerability and truth; cross borders through
interpersonal and interracial communication; build bridges through gaining knowledge of lives experiences from
individuals from various backgrounds and lifestyles.

"Future of Our Children”
1:00 p.m.—1:50 p.m. — Lake Erie — (Open to College Students Only)
Presenters: Maggie Cosand, Tao Sun, Brian Batayeh

What will our world look like in the time of our children? In this interactive round table discussion we will focus on controversial
topics surrounding individual choices about family and connections to larger society. Through a myriad of themes we will tackle
questions such as the power of a name in this country and domestic and international adoption through the lens of breaking barriers
of race and culture. We will explore and bend parameters of nation and culture surrounding consumption and build bridges through
building understanding of our potential responsibility for the wellbeing of others. While creatively exploring their own family desires
through an exciting activity, participants will have the chance to listen to other perspectives. Through this discussion participants will
challenge their ideas about individual ideas and societal realities, confront real life issues about cultural differences in child rearing
and ask themselves the question: What world are we building for our children who may look and think very differently from
ourselves? What sort of bridges do we need to build with others to make this future a better place?

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Workshop Descriptions

"Hunger Pains”
1:00 p.m.—1:50 p.m. — Lake Michigan, 3rd Floor — (Open to College Students Only)
Presenters: Laura Collier, Egypt Eady—Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Epsilon Epsilon Chapter
“Hunger Pains” examines food insecurity and the ways in which it affects the people in our community, especially at
Michigan State University. The program is intended to break down common misconceptions of hunger and bring the issue
closer to home, all the way to our backyards. The program will open with an interactive simulation that will encourage
participants to make tough decisions regarding food accessibility. After the engaging activity, the session will move into an
open discussion revolving around food deserts, hunger and access to healthy foods. The workshop will also provide
resources for those who are not only interested in becoming involved in the effort to fight hunger but people who may be
hungry themselves.

"Appropriate or Appropriation: Critiquing Consumption of Cultural Customs”
1:00 p.m.—1:50 p.m. — Room 36, Ground Floor — (Open to College Students Only)
Presenters: William Stephens, Aisha Bynum, Robyn Hubbard - National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
By definition (according to dictionary.com), to appropriate is to take without permission or consent; seize; or expropriate.
In this sense, cultural appropriation can be defined as the taking of one culture (usually an unrepresented culture) by a
dominant culture. As Americans, the dominant discourse has taught us that America is a “melting pot” of ideas, lifestyles,
traditions and culture. As citizens, we are made to believe that in order to function as a cohesive society, the blending of
ethnicities, races, and other identity markers are necessary and inescapable. Therefore, the boundaries between
appropriation, appreciation, acculturation, and celebration are consistently blurred. “Who determines appropriation?” and
“what counts as appropriation?” are complex questions that require critical reflection of ourselves and also the society that
we live in. This workshop aims to bridge the gap in understandings of appropriation. By creating an open forum, this
workshop will allow participants to analyze examples of appropriation versus appreciation; and to critique some factors
that decide who does the appropriating and who gets appropriated. By looking at images and accounts throughout the past
to the present day from various different cultures, participants will be able to voice their perspectives. Popular examples
we will analyze could include but isn’t limited to Iggy Azalea, Selena Gomez, and the Washington Redskins. Although our
workshop will not conclude with any definite answers, hopefully participants will walk away with a better understanding of
appropriation and how to respect other cultures.

“Civil Rights vs. Black Power”
2:00 p.m.—2:50 p.m. — Ballroom, 2nd Floor — (Open to High School & College Students)
Presenters: Tyler Clifford, Michael Storay — Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Civil Rights is defined as the rights of citizens to political and social freedom and equality. The social movement of the
1950s and ‘60s aimed to end racial segregation and discrimination through civil resistance to gain civil rights. The
movement included nonviolent protest and civil disobedience which created a crisis between activists and government
officials. Governments and communities responded to the national inequities. Black Power is a popular Black American
slogan aimed at self-determination, identity, and respect. The black power fist, still popular today, symbolized racial pride
and solidarity. It was a social movement for rights and political power for black people during the 1960s and 70s. The
movement built black political and cultural institutions to nurture and promote black collective interests and advance black
values. It encouraged defense against racial oppression and did not shy away from a militant approach. While these
movements resided on two separate spectrums, they reached toward the same goal. This workshop would explore the
similarities and differences in each of these movements while also illustrating the involvement of younger to older people.
We will also examine the historical influence on the ideologies of both movements, their achievements, and their lasting
legacies on America today. This will tie in with this year’s theme by examining the struggles leaders had to overcome, the
perception and legal impact, and its influence on other racial and social movements in the world.

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Workshop Descriptions

“Empowering YOUth: Engaging Youth in Social and Political Change”
2:00 p.m.—2:50 p.m. — Lake Huron, 3rd Floor — (Open to High School & College Students)
Presenters: Rashad Timmons, Kelsi Horn , Myya Jones, Salem Joseph - Black Student Alliance
This Workshop seeks to highlight the significance of youth in social movements organized by marginalized identities
across the world. There will be an initial focus on the youth population that is championing the resistance movement in
Ferguson and across the nation, but will delve into historical & contemporary movements in which young adults have
been vital. Additionally, the workshop intends to push against the notion that stagnation and the lack of leadership
characterizes our generation by discussing young innovators and organizers blazing trails today. Moreover, the
discussion will foreground renowned social activists & discuss their ages when enlisted as bearers against their
particular struggles. Ultimately we seek to challenge our audience that despite our youth we have the power and voice
to make change in our society and world.

“Battle for Earth: Strategy & Tactics in the Environmental Justice Movement”
2:00 p.m.—2:50 p.m. — Lake Superior, 3rd Floor — (Open to High School & College Students)
Presenter: Duncan Tarr — Michigan Coalition Against Tar Sands
In the struggle for social justice, sometimes it is more than the walls of Injustice that must be broken; sometimes
activists and organizers must break the Barriers of tactics used to achieve that justice. Although in the past
environmental Justice has been characterized as an entity separate from social justice, in this workshop we will build
bridges between the two. We will: A) Examine the strategies and tactics taken by environmental activists In Michigan
that break the conventional barriers of activism. B) Discuss the intersections between gender and the prison system. C)
Participate in a miniature letter A writing activity to show our support and solidarity for the activists in the case studies
we use. In this way we will carefully examine the question: What are the barriers that must be broken if we desire
justice for humanity and all Earth?

“Your Body, Our Temple”
2:00 p.m.—2:50 p.m. — Lake Ontario, 3rd Floor — (Open to High School & College Students)
Presenter: Ronald Roseman, Michella McCormick, Michelle Aguwa — Minority Association of Premedical Students
Learn about global organ trafficking and debate on how it can be advantageous or its potential danger. Join our
discussion on body exploitation and the way it affects people internationally and those of various socioeconomic
statuses. We will shed light on the deception, desperation, and vulnerability that contribute to the act of selling and
buying organs. In teams, we will actively consider different scenarios, and discuss whether or not each condition is
ethical, or avoidable. Afterward, we will propose possible solutions. We will also explore the ways organ trafficking
infringes on human rights and what this implies of privilege. Participants will gain knowledge, share thoughts, and
propose solutions with the Minority Association of Premedical Students.

“Soul Gallery”
2:00 p.m.—2:50 p.m. — MSU Room, 3rd Floor — (Open to High School & College Students)
Presenters: Irene Li, Tao Sun
In the spirit of "Ideas Worth Spreading" and in preparation for the upcoming TEDxMSU conference, we propose an
interactive workshop encouraging participants to practice vulnerability in an honest and anonymous way through a
"Soul Gallery". Using different types of media & interactive discussion, we’ll focus on the power of sharing ideas,
impactful storytelling, & the importance of building connections. We will arrange posters with a series of fill-in-the-
blank statements focusing on current issues (e.g. social justice, activism, personal hardship, race, power, & privilege)
throughout the venue; participants will circulate the gallery, simultaneously contributing to and observing strangers'
work. We will then reconvene after the gallery to talk about vulnerability and its importance in social justice
movements. In the spirit of TEDxMSU, we will prime discussion topics through the introduction clips and speeches from
previous TEDx Talks relating to the topics of personal engagement. The completed Soul Gallery will be a physical
documentation of the opinions and personalities represented at the MLK Conference. We hope that this session will
inspire participants to engage with the complexities and nuances that lie within every individual and social issue, in
addition to recognizing how they influence lived experiences on a local level here at Michigan State & in East Lansing.

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Workshop Descriptions

“Bias Busters: Building Bridges One Question at a Time”
2:00 p.m.—2:50 p.m. — Lake Michigan, 3rd Floor — (Open to High School & College Students)
Presenters: Joe Grimm & MSU Students from the Journalism School’s JRN 492 class
Building bridges sounds easy, but what are we supposed to use to build them? In the Journalism School’s Bias Busters
class (JRN 492), we build bridges with questions and answers. We publish 100-answer guides about race, ethnicity and
religion that get at the real questions people ask every day. The series has asked and answered 700 questions in two
years. Why do some Indians have a red dot on their foreheads? Do people from one Asian country understand those
from another? Is Hispanic food spicy? Can Muslim women who cover themselves play sports? Why do Americans smile
at strangers for no reason? Come spend some time with us. Learn how we find questions and their answers. Suggest
questions for two of this year’s guides, which will be about Jewish, and African Americans. Your question could
become part of one of our guides in 2015.

“The Roots of Non-Violence: Interfaith's Role in Changing the World”
2:00 p.m.—2:50 p.m. — Lake Erie, 3rd Floor — (Open to High School & College Students)
Presenter: Dakota Riehl — MSU Campus Interfaith Council
The purpose of the Campus Interfaith Council workshop is to promote relationships between peoples of differing faiths,
work to integrate a religious aspect into student life, and encourage interfaith cooperation and understanding as a road
to social change. We will be exploring the tapestry of religious and spiritual identities that make up our communities
and the complexities of how people construct and deconstruct identity. Through this workshop, students will be given
the opportunity to explore and encounter people of diverse faiths, beliefs, and cultures. While promoting the
importance of diverse dialogue, students should be challenged to reflect on their own beliefs, prejudices, and
assumptions as well as important role that faith plays in our world and within individual’s identities. Students will also
be challenged to assume a role of honest curiosity after being empowered with constructive tools at creating and
maintaining safe spaces and rhetoric for interreligious dialogue. We hope to provide a constructive workshop that
fosters open and respectful learning pertaining to identity, religion, spirituality, and culture. With these goals, we will
be attempting to meet the theme of the event "A Tribute to Project 60/50: Crossing Borders, Breaking Barriers, Building
Bridges," by reminding students the importance of honest curiosity and respect as well as the intrinsic role that belief
plays in societies and communities throughout the world. Once armed with this knowledge, students will be
empowered to cross the borders of unknowing, break down biases, and build understanding between belief
communities throughout the world.

““That’s So Ghetto” - Investigating the Evolution of Ghettos”
2:00 p.m.—2:50 p.m. — Room 30, Ground Floor — (Open to High School & College Students)
Presenter: William Kang, Theresa Abalo — Asian Pacific American Student Organization (APASO)
This workshop explores the evolution of ghettos and the intersections in their development amongst different minority
groups historically and in contemporary understandings of the ghetto. As the Asian Pacific American Student
Organization (APASO), we hope to be held accountable for understanding, deriving solutions from, and implementing
individual and social change in the Asian Pacific-American community, as well as ultimately identifying and connecting
the sources of segregation and poverty behind the creation and maintenance of ghettos intersecting different minority
groups. This ties into this year’s conference’s theme of “A Tribute to Project 60/50: Crossing Borders, Breaking Barriers,
Building Bridges” by attempting to cross the borders of privilege that separate people. We want to break barriers by
dismantling misconceptions of the ghetto and build bridges by understanding our responsibility for the development of
the ghetto and our role in the perpetuation of ideas that propagate the segregation and poverty embodied within
ghettos.

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Workshop Descriptions

“Civic Engagement & Political Activism for 2015 ”
2:00 p.m.—2:50 p.m. — Room 40, Ground Floor — (Open to High School & College Students)
Presenter: Courtney Woods & Reneeta Polson
The workshop will honor successful strategies for grassroots organizing, civic engagement, and political activism. The
workshop will provide information about strategies used in former social movements, and open discussion on
strategies commonly used today. The workshop will focus on engaging youth in organizing efforts for social justice.
The workshop will open with an introduction and a video. The participants will receive both a list of reading materials
and a scenario card. After the 5 minute video and 10 minutes of reflective discussion, the participants will engage in
interactive scenario game aiming to encourage participants to strategize for organizing efforts in reaction to a current
event. For example, a participant may have a card that describes a recent shooting happening in their neighborhood,
and in response the participant could suggest that the next steps for organizing a neighborhood for public safety, while
recognizing the possible factors that could prevent their efforts and how to overcome those trials. After 20 minute
scenario game, the last 10 minutes will be dedicated to open discussion for concluding remarks and forming a plan by
collaborating strategies among participants. The participants will sign a banner pledging to a year of activism and
writing a brief note of their plan to fulfill their pledge.

“The Multicultural Dialog”
2:00 p.m.—2:50 p.m. — Mosaic Conference Room, 2nd Floor — (Open to High School & College Students)
Presenters: Karyn Moore, Devyn Reed, RaKala Cosley - Midnight Golf Alumni Association
“So, what are you?” “Why do you sound white?” “Are you from China/Detroit?” “You’re pretty, for a dark skinned
girl!”…..It’s really the small things in life that can have the largest impact in any situation. Have you ever wondered
something about a certain culture but have always been too afraid to ask for fear of causing offense? Has someone
ever asked you something that was mildly or immensely offensive, however they don’t feel as if they have done
anything wrong? Often times these situations occur due to a simple lack of knowledge or misunderstanding of other
cultures. The goal of this workshop is to create a safe environment, where the tough and sometimes uncomfortable
questions can be asked. We will cover topics such as micro- and macro- aggressions, as well as race and cultural
differences. All discussions will be held with respect for everyone’s culture and/or race. At the conclusion of this
workshop participants will leave with a better understanding of different cultures. Participants will gain a working,
general knowledge of micro- and macro- aggressions. More specifically how they can harm others without intention
and how to avoid them. With the success of this workshop we will enlighten, enrich, and empower each other all while
helping to bridge the cultural gap that has kept us in the dark for far too long.

“A Change Is Gonna Come”
2:00 p.m.—2:50 p.m. — Mosaic Multipurpose Room, 2nd Floor — (Open to High School & College Students)
Presenters: Kristopher Johnson, Kenneth Green, Kevin Thomas, Donovan Collins - Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
Delta Kappa Chp. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Delta Kappa chapter presents a workshop entitled, “A Change Is
Gonna Come”. The title parallels the title of a Sam Cooke song that became the theme of the Civil Rights movement
and in 2007 was chosen for preservation in the Library of Congress. This workshop centers on the fight against
inequality in a modern context. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was signed decades ago, combating many ills against
African- American and other minorities. in 2015, are those ills gone? Have new issues rose in their place or by their
side? What can people- particularly youth- do to continue the fight for a better tomorrow? This workshop focuses on
these questions and more. Participants will take away a better understanding of what the Civil Rights Act accomplished
and learn relevant techniques of civil disobedience in a world far different from 1964. This workshop has a specific
foundation in the aspect of breaking barriers, falling in line with the theme of Project 60/50’s conclusion. All are
welcome and encouraged to participate!

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Resource Fair Partners

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Zeta Delta Chapter
Asian Pacific American Student Organization
Black Student Alliance

Center for Service-Learning and Civic Engagement
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Epsilon Epsilon Chapter

Delta Tau Lambda Sorority, Inc.
Destination Detroit: Building Bridges

East Lansing Public Library
LBGT Resource Center
Mid-Michigan Interfaith

Midnight Golf Alumni Association
Minority Association of Premedical Students

MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine
MSU Dream Team

MSU Federal Credit Union
MSU Libraries

National Association of Black Accountants
National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice
National Organization of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers

National Society of Black Engineers
Office of Study Abroad

Power of We Americorps
Successful Black Women

Who is Hussain?
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated - Phi Gamma Chapter

Congratulations Spartans on exceeding the goal for the 110 Yearlong Spartan Service Challenge!

Be Spartan PROUD! Together we served over 141,000 hours! Let’s keep this momentum going into 2015!

Spartans Will. SERVE.

Contact us to get involved!

facebook.com/MSUServiceLearning twitter.com/MSU_ServeEngage

[email protected] www.servicelearning.msu.edu 517.353.4400

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15

Acknowledgements

The MLK Student Activities Board and the 2015 Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative
Celebration Planning Committee are thankful for the support they received during the
planning of the 2015 Student Leadership Conference and other activities. Special thanks to
the Office for Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives, the Office of Cultural and Academic
Transitions, the University Activities Board, & the Office for International Students and
Scholars for their financial/logistical support.

2015 MLK Student Activities Board

Co-Chairs: Stephanie Beavers
Laura Collier Cassondra Church
Cassondra Church
Stephanie Beavers Tao Sun
Laura Collier
Tao Sun Cory Ridenour
Kenya Abbott
Advisors: Keyon Clinton
Ignacio Andrade (Office for Inclusion) Tyler Clifford
Courtney Woods
Sam Appel (MSU Hillel) Rashad Timmons
Audrey Bentley (Office for Inclusion) Nate Strauss
Rakala Cosley
Robert Biddle (OCAT) Elijah Tyra
Cathy Fitzpatrick (UAB) Dakota Riehl
Ron Owens
K.C. Keyton (CSLCE) Bre’Onna Sanders
Sharon Ladenson (MSU Library) Denzell Wright
Laura Williams
Charles Liu (OISS) Shomari Tate
Antonio Pee (REHS) Kenya Abbott Jr.
Brian Proffer (UAB) Fatima Din
Mary Worrall (MSU Museum) Eleanor Doyle
Symbat Payayeva
$$$ - SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY DaCha’na Blaydes
Mariah Hill
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Endowed Scholarship Program
enables more students at Michigan State University to Pa Vang
Gabby Sanford
further their education and achieve their dream of earning Selena Crummie
a college degree. The program’s mission is simple: To Naledi Makhene
Caroline Poole
support an inclusive population of MSU students, domestic
and international, who exhibit leadership and commitment Aminah Lott
Michael Robinson
to social change. Marion Bakhoya
For more information and to apply, please visit

http://www.inclusion.msu.edu/Outreach/
MLKEndowedScholarship.html

Application deadline is February 28, 2015

Don’t forget to follow us!!:
https://www.facebook.com/Inclusion.MSU

https://twitter.com/MSUInclusion

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Notes Page