Martin Luther King Jr. Initiative
The MLK Initiative: Let Freedom Ring! invites students, faculty and staff to participate in a range of events that celebrate the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Legacy of a Dream Award
The John Thompson Jr. Legacy of a Dream Award — named for the legendary Georgetown head basketball coach, Washington, DC, native, mentor, advocate and community leader — is awarded each year to an individual or group that has demonstrated outstanding service in the District in Georgetown’s Catholic and Jesuit tradition of being people for others.
2026 Legacy of a Dream Awardee: Kowshara Thomas, Joseph’s House
Kowshara Thomas serves as executive director of Joseph’s House, a nonprofit that provides and coordinates holistic care for unhoused adults living with HIV/AIDS and terminal cancer. Kowshara has dedicated her career to clinical development, community growth and compassionate end-of-life care.
Past Recipients
His first year at Georgetown, Reginald Douglas (C’09) wanted to work on K St., not Broadway. Nearly two decades later, he’s being honored for inspiring social change through theater.
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Georgetown recognized Paula Fitzgerald, a nonprofit leader who’s expanded support for low-income immigrants, with the 2023 John Thompson Jr. Legacy of a Dream Award.
Let Freedom Ring Celebration
Each year, Georgetown University celebrates the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a free musical tribute open to the public. The annual concert features a headlining performance by legendary musical artists.
Community Events
Each year, Georgetown honors the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through events on campus and in the greater Washington, DC, community that reflect the university’s Catholic and Jesuit values of contemplation in action and being people for others.