The Martin Luther King Center was established in 1987 at the University of Kentucky to create a supportive community space on campus, rooted in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s philosophy of nonviolent social change. Initially located near the bookstore in the former Gatton Student Center, the center quickly became a pivotal community space for the UK students and staff. Opened in January 1987 to coincide with the National MLK Jr. Day Holiday, the Center began as the Martin Luther King Cultural Center, hosting a wide range of programs, speakers, artistic showcases, and lectures, open to students, faculty, and the local Lexington community.
84%
of students
Agree that because of their connection to the MLK Center, "I feel like I belong at the University of Kentucky."
92%
of students
Agree that the MLK Center helps create a welcoming campus environment where people from all backgrounds feel valued and supported.
88%
of students
Agree that the professional and student staff at the MLK Center support their unique cultural identity.
