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The annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Celebration features a prominent, successful African American keynote speaker and attracts a large crowd from throughout the community. Past speakers have included actors, journalists, judges, authors and Olympians, among others. The event encourages and inspires attendees to continue working for the cause of racial equality, for which Dr. King gave his life.

The event is sponsored by the USI Multicultural Center and other sponsors, which vary each year.

2024 Speaker

USI to host CADCA President, CEO for annual MLK, Jr. Memorial Celebration Luncheon

The University of Southern Indiana will host a presentation by retired Major General Barrye L. Price, honoring the memory and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as part of USI’s annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Celebration Luncheon at 11 a.m. Monday, January 15 in Carter Hall, located in University Center East. Doors will open at 10:15 a.m. The presentation is open to the public. Tickets are required to attend. 

Price presently serves as the President and CEO of the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA). A 1985 distinguished military graduate of the University of Houston's College of Business Administration, he also boasts an impressive military career. His extensive military service included a range of notable assignments, showcasing his leadership and strategic acumen. His roles encompassed Executive Officer, Battalion Commander, and Deputy Commanding General, among others, with assignments spanning various locations such as Fort Polk, West Point and Washington, D.C. 

Notably, Price served on the President and First Lady's Task Force on Raising Responsible and Resourceful Teenagers in 2000 and contributed to President Clinton's Mississippi Delta Task Force from 1999-2000. Price is also a published author, with volumes examining urban unrest and federal intervention within the United States. His accolades and honors during his army career include the Army Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, two Legions of Merit and the Bronze Star Medal. 

“As we celebrate the life and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., it is befitting that we have Major General Barry L. Price as our keynote speaker,” says Dr. Pamela Hopson, Executive Director of the USI Multicultural Center. “Both leaders represent peace and inspiration. Regardless of the circumstances in their life, they have never given up.” 

Tickets are $35 for USI employees and students and $45 for the general public. They can be purchased on the USI Multicultural Center website. A ticket includes lunch. 

For more information or accommodations, please contact the Multicultural Center at 812-465-7188.


Past Speakers


  • 2023 - Keith Beauchamp
  • 2022 - Dr. Gwendolyn Carol Webb
  • 2021 - Dr. Talitha Washington
  • 2020 - April Ryan
  • 2019 - Donna Brazile
  • 2018 - Dr. Johnnetta Cole
  • 2017 – Cornell William Brooks
  • 2016 - Major General Barrye L. Price
  • 2015 - Dr. James D. Anderson
  • 2014 - Jasmine Guy
  • 2013 - Susan Taylor
  • 2012 - Judge Glenda Hatchett
  • 2011 - Hill Harper
  • 2010 - Juan Williams
  • 2009 - Dr. John Carlos
  • 2008 - Coach Herman Boone
  • 2007 - George E. Curry
  • 2006 - A'Lelia Bundles