The Mohawk Valley Frontiers are honored to announce that Dr. Christopher Spence, Superintendent of the Utica School District, will serve as the keynote speaker for the 41st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Luncheon. Dr. Spence’s leadership and commitment to education are a testament to the enduring legacy of Dr. King.
Appointed in July 2024, Dr. Christopher Spence brings years of experience and a passion for educational excellence to his role as Superintendent of the Utica City School District. As part of his first 100-day plan, he has prioritized understanding the district’s unique needs and fostering community engagement. His leadership promises to inspire and shape a brighter future for the community.
Founded in 1971, the Mohawk Valley Frontiers is a civic service organization dedicated to the betterment of Oneida County. The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon features influential speakers addressing pressing community and social issues. Past speakers have included notable figures such as Randall VanWagoner, President of Mohawk Valley Community College.
This year, the luncheon will also honor Alane Varga and Jacqueline Nelson with the prestigious Community Service Award, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the Mohawk Valley community.
Alane P. Varga, former Dean for Diversity and Inclusion at Utica University, has been a driving force in promoting inclusive campus environments. Her professional development efforts, including participation in the 2019 Winter Institute by the New York State Association for College Admission Counseling (NYSACAC), highlight her commitment to diversity and equity. Varga’s dedication extends beyond her academic role, with active service on the YWCA Mohawk Valley Board of Directors and the Central New York Library Resources Council Board of Trustees, reflecting her passion for community service and advocacy.
In addition to these roles, Varga serves as the Secretary of the Oneida County NAACP and is an active member of the Oneida County Pride Association.
Jacqueline Nelson is a respected community advocate and president of the Rome Branch of the NAACP. Her leadership has earned her a New York State Senate Commendation Award, presented by Senator Joseph A. Griffo in November 2023. Nelson has also been featured on the program Behind the Woman with Juhanna Rogers, where she shared her impactful work. Her contributions to historical preservation have been recognized with the Medal of the Order of 1777 by the Rome Historical Society. Additionally, she serves on the boards of the Mohawk Valley Community Action Agency and the Neighborhood Center, where she advocates for initiatives that improve the quality of life for residents in the region.
The 41st Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Luncheon will take place on Monday, January 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the Harts Hill Inn, 135 Clinton Street, Whitesboro, NY.
Tickets:
Tickets are available for $50.00 per person, with all sales taking place prior to the event. To purchase tickets, please contact Unice Elliott Jefferson at 315-534-4029.
Media Inquiries:
For media inquiries, please contact Dawn Laguerre at laguerremedia@gmail.com or 315-266-7548.
Join us in celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through reflection, inspiration, and
