College is a season when students begin forming their own values, often through conversations and experiences that challenge them to think more deeply about the world around them. Events like MLK Night of the Arts play an important role in that process, offering students not only historical context but also opportunities to practice listening, reflection, and community-building skills that are essential well beyond graduation.
MLK Night was a very special event to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and to help students think critically about how his message of justice, service, and community still matters today. This event was hosted by Geneva College in collaboration with the Multicultural Engagement Team. The event focused strongly on respectful dialogue, active listening, and thoughtful engagement rather than centering on debate or persuasion. MLK Night emphasized skills that are essential for students navigating diverse perspectives both during college and beyond.
MLK Night offered a rare moment to slow down and consider how Dr.King’s vision connects to our own lives, beliefs, and responsibilities as emerging adults. When students are exposed to structured dialogues, it can support cognitive and emotional growth by helping students develop empathy, critical thinking skills, and the ability to engage constructively with complex or sensitive topics. Having experiences like MLK Night contributes to a stronger sense of belonging, which is closely linked to students' well-being and persistence in college.
Another feature of MLK Night was the debut of City on a Hill, a new student contemporary Christian worship team. City on a Hill is committed to bringing students of different backgrounds together to engage in meaningful worship and community engagement.
City on a Hill provides an important continuation of the work begun at MLK Night. Rather than being a one-time experience, the group allows students to build relationships, practice listening across differences, and reflect on how values can be lived out in everyday campus life. For students who are still forming their perspectives, having a space that encourages curiosity, humility, and thoughtful conversation can be especially meaningful.
Events like MLK Night and initiatives such as City on a Hill reflect the College’s commitment to educating the whole student. By creating opportunities for dialogue, reflection, worship, and community, these experiences help students grow not only as scholars, but as thoughtful, engaged individuals preparing to navigate life well beyond college.
By Essie Hilton '28
Opinions expressed in the Geneva Blog are those of its contributors and do not necessarily represent the opinions or official position of the College. The Geneva Blog is a place for faculty and contributing writers to express points of view, academic insights, and contribute to national conversations to spark thought, conversation, and the pursuit of truth, in line with our philosophy as a Christian, liberal arts institution.
Feb 18, 2026Campus LifeRelated Blog Posts
Surviving Winter: Snowy Outings and Indoor Fun
You may find yourself slipping into the wintertime blues after saying goodbye to the Christmas season. Whether craving a cozy day indoors or a frosty thrill out, there is always an adventure waiting to happen in Beaver County!
Finding My Academic Path at Geneva
Social media intern Isabel Nordyke reflects on the professors and staff who helped guide her academic path at Geneva.
Commuter Community: Making the Most of Your Geneva College Experience
Nearly a third of Geneva’s students are commuters. While there are pros to commuting, it can present its own set of challenges at times. Here are some tips for making the most of your Geneva College experience as a commuter.
My Experience at Jubilee
Abby Stover '27 reflects on her years attending the Jubilee Conference in Pittsburgh.
Jubilee: The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
The (50th!) annual Jubilee Conference will take place February 13-15, 2026, in Pittsburgh, PA. Learn more from Geneva's director of campus ministry, John Wilhelm.
A Day of Purpose: The Envision Experience
"Envision is a way for students to take the skills they have learned in the classroom and use them with our neighbors," shares student Ashlee Gagnon '26.
Surviving Winter: Cozy Outings and Local Treats
If you’re looking for a chill-yet-fun day out with friends in the winter months, Beaver County and beyond have several places that might just spark your interest.
Seeing Geneva’s Mission Up Close
As a social media intern in Geneva's Marketing Department, Libby Campbell '28 shares a behind-the-scenes look at the College.
Senior Launch Conference: What Is It and How Is It Helpful?
Where will I live? How much money do I need to live? How do I make friends? These are frequently heard questions from alumni in their first year out of college. In response, the Center for Calling & Career created the Senior Launch Conference.
Request Information
Learn more about Geneva College.
Have questions? Call us at 724-847-6505.
Online Course Login
myGeneva Student Portal
© Geneva College | All rights reserved