BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.--Gardner-Webb University's annual Martin Luther King Jr. observance will be held during Dimensions on Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2018 at 9:25 a.m. Captain Marion Platt of The Salvation Army will discuss King's legacy. The free event is open to the public and will be held in Stewart Hall, located inside the Tucker Student Center.
Since January 1999, the University has designated the Tuesday program following the MLK holiday as a celebration of King's life, shared Dr. Tracy Jessup, vice president of the Office of Christian Life and Service and senior minister to the University. "We are honored this year to have Captain Platt as our featured speaker," he added.
Platt is an ordained minister and a veteran of the U.S. Army. He currently serves as the director of personnel at Evangeline Booth College in Atlanta, Ga. A native of Charleston, S.C., he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministries, a Master of Arts Degree in Organizational Leadership, and will soon defend his doctoral dissertation at Trevecca Nazarene University in Nashville, Tenn.
"By way of introduction, I'll say that I'm first and foremost a passionate follower of Jesus," Platt shared. "My focus will explore God's narrative for human relationships, and emphasize Martin Luther King Jr.'s desire for this generation to produce daring dreamers and valiant visionaries."
Platt grew up in church, but drifted away from his Christian faith. During his service in the Army, he experienced a personal crisis and deep despair. A sergeant invited him to church, and he discovered that God had been waiting for him and was calling him into ministry. When he left the military, he went back to The Salvation Army Church with his grandmother. He signed up for officer training and was commissioned in 2004. Platt is also a talented musician and songwriter, sharing biblical truths through hip-hop and rap music.
"The mission of The Salvation Army is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination," Platt observed. "It was this mission that attracted me to the movement, which is now active in 128 countries, officially. This mission is a reminder that the Gospel is more than a message alone--but the Kingdom in action."
Gardner-Webb's Dimensions program seeks to enhance the spiritual, intellectual and cultural life at the University and to promote a sense of community. More information is available by calling the GWU Office of Christian Life & Service at 704-406-4277 or visiting gardner-webb.edu.
Auxiliary aids will be made available to persons with disabilities upon request 48 hours prior to the event. Please call 704-406-4270 or email disabilityservices@gardner-webb.edu with your request.
Located in the North Carolina foothills, Gardner-Webb University is a private, Christian, liberal arts university that prepares students to become critical thinkers, effective leaders and compassionate servants in the global community. Emphasizing a strong student-centered experience and rigorous academics, Gardner-Webb ignites learning and service opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.
Submitted by Jackie Bridges