“I’m convinced that this crowd was made up of people who were...“dog-tired of second-class citizenship,” of being made to feel less than a human being worthy of respect...One has to be open to the truth that at some level we are all the same and want the same things, like a peaceful community in which to live and grow and thrive.”
Dr. Dorothy Cotton, "If Your Back's Not Bent: The Role of the Citizenship Education Program in the Civil Rights Movement"
Demonstrated leadership is a critical factor for consideration when our team begins recruiting for a new incoming class of MLK Scholars. For us, it's not about how much a prospective student has taken on, but rather the quality of their involvement and how well they can articulate the impact of those leadership opportunities. During the first year, MLK Scholars will be asked to attend programs, events, and utilize campus resources specifically designed to continue building skills inside and outside of the classroom.
Unlearning is a key component of learning. New MLK Scholars are required to take a 3-credit seminar during their first semester at IC; CSCR 12100, The U.S. Civil Rights Movement. Over 16 weeks, students will explore concepts of race, power, and oppression to reexamine United States history from the Trans-Atlantic Enslaved Persons Trade to significant legislative victories like Brown V. Board of Ed, The Civil Rights Act of '64, and the Voters Right Act of '65.
MLK Scholars also travel on a 5-day Civil Rights Tour to parts of Georgia and Alabama in an effort to deepen their studies and solidify their foundation of a life-long commitment to social justice and service.
Another key consideration we look for in candidates is a history of volunteerism and service in their local community. Civic engagement is a core value for our program, thus ensuring a mutual fit as students determine if this program is right for them. MLK Scholars are asked to continue their volunteer efforts in the local Tompkins County community or within the Ithaca College Community.
Teamwork powered the "Dream" we often associate with the Rev. Dr. King, Jr. The cohort of 'Scholars will work together on a project that is educational, reflective, and calls our community to action.
Check out the Class of 2026's Leadership for this year's MLK Celebration
Traditionally, the first year MLK Scholars have worked together to coordinate a reflective presentation to our campus community during our MLK Campus-Wide Celebration in February. This presentation draws heavily from their course work and Civil Rights Tour experience.