The 2024 MLK Dinner, hosted January 11 by the Albany Area Chamber Foundation and Albany State University in partnership with the King Day Celebration Committee, brought together a diverse cross-section of the community, from local businesses to dignitaries, for an unforgettable evening inspired by the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

The highlight of the sold-out event, presented by Colony Bank, was an impactful keynote address by Rodney D. Bullard, CEO of The Same House. Bullard's insights on corporate social responsibility, community engagement and philanthropy resonated with attendees, complementing the event's theme of unity and service. Bullard, former executive director of the Chick-fil-A Foundation, encouraged each guest to take care of their “three-feet,” meaning take care of what’s close to you. If everyone took care of their three feet, he said, the world would change. 

Art took center stage with the Renaissance Connection’s Femi Anderson Memorial Children of the Dream Art Contest winners from Dougherty County Schools, providing a creative and inspiring touch to the evening and emphasizing the importance of nurturing artistic talent within our community. The following winners were celebrated by multiple rounds of applause: Landon Roberts Middle School - Best in Show; Yaneria Jackson, Middle School First Place; Te’yunda Jackson, Middle School Second Place; Justin Lunsford, Middle School Third Place; Evian Weaver, Middle School Honorable Mention; Ciara Graham, High School Best in Show; Adrian Rogers, High School First Place; Kevontaye Bradley, High School Second Place; Destinee Roberts, High School Third Place; Kelsey Vicks, High School Honorable mention. 

The event's dynamic atmosphere was further enhanced by musical performances, including the impressive stylings of FLEX ABY’s Michael Anderson and a delightful presentation by students from the Dougherty Comprehensive High School Chorus who received a standing ovation for their performance. 

In their commitment to supporting local talent and fostering future leaders, the Albany Area Chamber Foundation and Albany State University awarded Khalia McLendon and Tanaisha Reese, two students from Dougherty County School System’s Monroe High School, with $1,000 scholarships each to ASU. Both winners shared their winning essays detailing their dreams for Albany. While on stage, they accepted their scholarships presented by Bárbara Rivera Holmes, President and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber Foundation and Dr. Marion Fedrick, President of Albany State University. 

“I am honored to have witnessed the vibrant tapestry of our community's unity and commitment to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s legacy at the 2024 MLK Dinner” noted Dr. Fedrick. “This sold-out event reflects not only our shared dedication to service but also the profound impact we can achieve when diverse voices and businesses unite. I extend sincere gratitude to our sponsors, partners, and the entire community for contributing to the richness of this evening. The Albany State University community remains dedicated to fostering an inclusive educational environment and collaborating for positive change in Albany. Let this accomplishment inspire us to continue breaking barriers and building a future that honors the principles of Dr. King.” 

Colony Bank reinforced its commitment to community empowerment by awarding two diverse small businesses with a one-year membership to the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, providing valuable opportunities and benefits for businesses within the community. Salon M, led by owner Mary Osborne, is a woman-owned Aveda Salon providing personalized color services and exceptional hair care and local nonprofit, GROW Southwest Georgia who is committed empowering young individuals facing challenges such as limited access to food, inadequate youth development, and a lack of exposure to career opportunities. 

“As the Chair of the Albany Area Chamber Foundation, I take great pride in witnessing the resounding success of the 2024 MLK Dinner. The event truly showcased our community's commitment to the values of unity, service, and the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” said Matt Reed, chair of the Albany Area Chamber Foundation. “Our sincere gratitude goes to our sponsors, partners, and the entire community for their contributions to this exceptional evening resulting in two scholarships for local high school seniors, two Albany Area Chamber of Commerce membership sponsorships for minority businesses, art showcases, a beautiful chorus performance from the DCHS Chorus, an investment into a FLEX student entrepreneur and so much more. This evening further fueled our dedication to advancing the impactful work of the Albany Area Chamber Foundation, reinforcing our commitment to collaboration and positive transformation in the Albany community." 

As a valuable part of the evening Rodney Bullard, CEO of The Same House and former Vice President of Global Corporate Social Responsibility at Chick-fil-A, Inc., and Executive Director of the Chick-fil-A Foundation, delivered an amazing message challenging the Albany community to think of each other the way that one would if they lived together in the same house. 

The evening of celebration and inspiration concluded with Bárbara Rivera Holmes reminding guests of the infamous words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.” 

"The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled with the overwhelming response to the 2024 MLK Dinner. This event truly exemplifies the strength of our community, bringing together individuals and businesses to celebrate unity and honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,” said Jeretha Peters, 2024 chair of the Albany Area Chamber. “We extend our deepest thanks to our sponsors, partners and everyone who contributed to making this event a tremendous success."