Show-Me State Times

The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Tribute at Saint Louis University featured prominent speakers who highlighted the importance of taking action and maintaining hope. Rochelle Smith, SLU's vice president for the Division for Diversity and Innovative Community Engagement, and Michael McMillan, president and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan St. Louis, both cited a quote from King: “The time is always right to do what is right.”

SLU President Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D., participated in a panel discussion with Bishop Michael F. Jones Sr., Regina Belle, and Judge Glenda A. Hatchett, J.D., where he quoted King's 1964 speech at SLU: “‘We have come a long way, but there is still a long long way to go.’” Pestello emphasized the need to continue striving for justice despite setbacks.

Smith urged attendees to take bold actions inspired by past leaders: “It is now our turn to make history.” McMillan added that the event aimed to inspire renewed commitment to justice.

Several awards were presented during the ceremony, including new awards named after President Pestello and First Lady Dr. Fran Pestello. The Fred Pestello Award recognizes leadership for justice and service, while the Fran Pestello Award honors efforts to encourage belonging.

Smith expressed her gratitude towards Fred Pestello for his leadership and friendship with her late husband Jonathan Smith, Ph.D., SLU’s inaugural vice president of Diversity and Community Engagement: “These tears are for happiness,” she said.