DENMARK – Voorhees University held its first-ever communitywide breakfast honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Monday’s event brought together more than 200 members of the community to pay homage to King and recognize outstanding local leaders.
The focal point of the celebration was the recognition of the achievements of local citizens whose service reflects the commitment, spirit and passion of King.
Among the recipients was Dr. Cleveland L. Sellers, who was the recipient of the Drum Major Lifetime Achievement Award.
Sellers, a civil rights activist and former president of Voorhees University, played a crucial role in the civil rights movement of the 1960s, working alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
His commitment to justice and equality earned him this prestigious accolade, celebrating a lifetime dedicated to positive change.
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The event showcased the rich talent within the community, featuring the inspiring performance of the I Have a Dream Community Voices Choir. The choir is made up of local singers who came together specifically for this inaugural event.
Denmark-Olar High School junior Reginald Youmans delivered a powerful oratorical offering, reciting an excerpt from King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.
Youmans’ eloquence and passion resonated with the audience, capturing the essence of King’s vision and emphasizing its relevance today.
The occasion served not only as a tribute to King but also as a recognition of local leaders who received the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major Award. Each honoree, including Sellers, was recognized for symbolizing the spirit of leadership and community service that King embodied.
Recipients of the Drum Major Awards include:
The Delta Zeta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated held their 35th annual MLK Unity Breakfast to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
• Dr. Margaret Gilmore (Allendale) – former superintendent of the Allendale County Schools
• Samella Porter (Bamberg) – A dedicated community activist and senior citizen organizer
• Marcus A. Rivera (Barnwell) – The first African-American elected mayor of the City of Barnwell
• The Rev. Dr. Floyd Hughes (Blackville) – Pastor of Macedonia Baptist Church
• The Rev. Isaiah Odom (Denmark) – The longest-serving Bamberg County councilman, from 1978 to 2020
• Peggy Tyler (Norway – posthumously) – An educator in Denmark-Olar School District II
• Elder Priscilla D. Spruill (Olar) – A pastor, community organizer, youth leader and adult volunteer
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