The Ames/Story County MLK Celebration Committee is hosting a hybrid event to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday. The celebration will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Ames City Auditorium, 520 Sixth St., with birthday cookies served at 6 p.m. For those unable to attend in person, the event will stream live on Facebook and YouTube.

Toyia Younger, Senior Vice President for Student Affairs at Iowa State University, will deliver the keynote address. With a career rooted in higher education leadership, Younger previously served at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities. She holds degrees from Michigan State University, Trinity Washington University and the University of Maryland.

The celebration also features the fourth annual MLK Celebration Essay Contest for Story County high school students. Participants reflect on King’s impact on their lives and communities, inspiring others to carry his legacy forward. The contest winner will read their essay during the event.

The Ames Human Relations Commission will present the annual Humanitarian Award to an individual who has significantly contributed to promoting diversity and equality within the community.

The celebration is supported by local organizations, including the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, NAACP – Ames Branch, and YWCA Ames-ISU. For more information, visit.

This celebration underscores Dr. King’s enduring influence and offers a moment for the Ames community to reflect on his vision of justice and equality.
For more information on the event, visit the city of Ames website.