NORFOLK, Va. — Old Dominion University (ODU) announced that Dr. Bernice A. King's keynote address in honor of her father, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., has been postponed.
In a release on Monday, ODU said the address planned for Jan. 23 was no longer happening following the news of the passing of Dexter Scott King, Dr. Bernice King's brother. The university said it will announce the rescheduled date at a later time.
"The University appreciates the community’s flexibility and understanding as the King family mourns the loss of a beloved member," according to a release from ODU. "The Monarch Nation extends its deepest condolences to the King family during this difficult time."
The keynote address was planned for ODU's 39th Annual MLK Jr. Observance.
In the initial release revealing the guest speaker, ODU President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. said “Old Dominion University is truly honored to welcome Dr. Bernice King to learn how we can build upon the legacies of her parents, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King, both in our daily efforts and through our important mission of teaching, research and service.”
Dr. Bernice King currently serves as the CEO of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, commonly referred to as The King Center. The center, which Coretta Scott King founded, continues to call for social change through policy, advocacy and education.
Since Dr. Bernice King has led the center, initiatives impacting more than 500,000 people worldwide have been implemented.
ODU said it was also postponing its Hugo Owens Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Award which is presented to an individual or organization that has positively contributed to civil rights, politics, housing and social programs.