The City of Monroe will celebrate the 47th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Salute on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. located at the W. L. “Jack” Howard Theater at the Monroe Civic Center Complex.
Monroe naming acclaimed architect and former AIA President Kimberly Dowdell as the keynote speaker.
The event celebrates Dr. King’s legacy and promotes community engagement. Acknowledging community members who share similar leadership skills, values and visions of honorable Dr. King.
Dowdell brings decades of leadership in architecture, infrastructure and community-focused design. She has served as the 100th President of the AIA, led the National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) and co-founded the Social, Economic, Environmental Design (SEED) Network.
Her work spans public service, academia, real estate development and project management, with a focus on using design to improve quality of life.
The event will also feature other tributes to Dr. King with student performances, civic recognition and additional speakers, highlighting the community’s commitment to honoring Dr. King’s vision.
The celebration is free to the public and available to be viewed live on the City of Monroe’s Facebook page.
