Eddie Glaude Jr. to serve as keynote speaker for the annual Expressions of King’s Legacy program at RIT

Rochester, New York – Rochester Institute of Technology will once again place reflection, dialogue, and community at the center of its campus as it welcomes noted scholar and public intellectual Eddie Glaude Jr. as the keynote speaker for the 44th annual Expressions of King’s Legacy program. The event is scheduled for noon on Thursday, Jan. 29, and will take place in the Gordon Field House and Activities Center.

The program, which is free and open to the public, continues a decades-long tradition at RIT of honoring the life, ideas, and enduring influence of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. While admission is free, organizers are asking attendees to register in advance to help with planning and to receive event updates.

Glaude brings national recognition and academic depth to the keynote role. He is the New York Times bestselling author of Begin Again: James Baldwin’s America and Its Urgent Lessons for Our Own, a book that examines America’s moral crossroads through the lens of Baldwin’s writing and activism. In addition to his work as an author, Glaude serves as the James S. McDonnell Distinguished University Professor at Princeton University and previously chaired the university’s Department of African American Studies.

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Beyond academia, Glaude is widely known as a political commentator and public thinker. He is a frequent columnist for Time magazine and appears regularly on cable news as an MS NOW contributor, offering analysis on race, democracy, and the nation’s social and political challenges. His voice has become familiar to audiences seeking thoughtful, historically grounded perspectives on contemporary issues.

RIT leaders say his presence reflects the university’s continued commitment to bringing influential voices to campus. “We are proud to continue the long-standing tradition of bringing powerful voices to our campus to celebrate the legacy of Dr. King,” said Keith Jenkins, vice president and associate provost for Access, Engagement, and Success. “We look forward to gathering with our students, faculty, and staff across campus and with the wider community for this special program.”

Expressions of King’s Legacy began in 1982 and has grown into one of the university’s most significant annual events. Over the years, it has evolved from a campus observance into a program that draws members of the broader Rochester community, creating space for shared learning and reflection. The event is organized by RIT’s Division of Access, Engagement, and Success and is designed to highlight Dr. King’s impact while connecting his message to present-day conversations.

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In addition to the keynote address, the program will include a live musical performance by Ryan Johnson and Glen Cummings. Their set will blend elements of funk, soul, and R&B, adding a creative dimension to the midday gathering. WXXI will serve as the event’s media sponsor.

Organizers say the combination of scholarship, music, and community engagement reflects the spirit of the program itself. Expressions of King’s Legacy is intended not only to honor history, but also to encourage ongoing dialogue and action inspired by Dr. King’s vision.

Those interested in attending are encouraged to register through the Expressions of King’s Legacy website. While registration is not required for entry, it allows the university to share timely information and ensures a smooth experience for all participants.