Thursday, January 23, 2025

Each January, Providence College honors Dr. King and his efforts to create a Beloved Community at the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, a special event featuring guest speakers whose work reflects Dr. King’s legacy.

Matthew Slater

New England Patriots Legend 

Three-time Super Bowl winner and esteemed humanitarian Matthew Slater will be the featured speaker at Providence College’s Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration on Thursday, January 23, 2025.

Universally regarded as one of the best special teams players in NFL history, Slater retired in 2023 after 16 years with the New England Patriots. The 10-time Pro Bowl selection and 13-year team captain is in his first season as a special assistant to head coach Jerod Mayo.

Slater’s legacy of leadership extends to his commitment to changing lives and making communities stronger. Recognized numerous times by the Patriots, the NFL, and other organizations for community service, Slater and his wife, Dr. Shahrzad Ehdaivand Slater, founded the Slater Family Foundation in 2020. His work on and off the field exemplifies character, selflessness, and the importance of being a good teammate.

MLK Vision Awards

In 2018, and in remembrance of the 50th anniversary of the assassination of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Providence College established the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Vision Award. This annual award honors individuals or groups who exemplify his teachings and spirit. 

The MLK Celebration kicked off a series of events that included the presentation of the MLK Vision Award during a celebratory luncheon, a day of service, and a student gala.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration

MLK Gala

MLK Global Colloquium

Prayer Luncheon and MLK Vision Award Presentation 

MLK Day of Service