Southwestern College will celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, Jan. 20, at 6 p.m. in the Deets Library on the Southwestern College campus. There is no admission charge and the community is invited to attend. 

The featured speaker for the event is Odell Harris Jr., with music from soloist Kimberly Paige. Other speakers for the celebration include Southwestern College President Liz Frombgen and vice president for special projects and planning, Dawn Pleas.

Harris is a pastor, teacher, evangelist, and entrepreneur. Since 2008, he has been a Future Ready Advocate Mentor for Wichita public schools.  He assists students from all backgrounds with decision-making, coping skills, leadership development, and study habits. He focuses on improving the lives of students and their families.  He is the co-owner and vice president at Heavenly Gates Mortuary; a supervisor at Making a Difference Shelter Home; an assistant coach for Team Wichita Elite Track and Field, and a young adult, youth, and children’s pastor at Strangers Rest Missionary Baptist Church. Harris was the head cross country coach at Wichita West from 2017-2020, and most recently was interim head cross country coach at Southwestern College.

He was recently named Volunteer of the Year by the Wichita Police Department and has been nationally recognized in the work of Equity, Diversity, Accountability, and Inclusion; restorative practices, and in community uplift and youth justice.

“As a bi-vocational pastor, my life's calling and mission are to walk alongside some of the most challenged and disenfranchised individuals and families,” Harris says.  “This work not only makes my life feel impactful but also purpose-driven.”

Soloist Kimberly Paige is a dynamic vocalist whose soulful blend of jazz and R&B transports listeners to a realm of enchanting musical experiences. Raised in the AME church, she began singing at the age of four, developing a powerful and heartfelt vocal style that continues to captivate audiences. Throughout her school years, she refined her craft, harnessing the warmth and intimacy that define her performances today.

Drawing inspiration from timeless icons like Ella Fitzgerald, Aretha Franklin, and Chaka Khan, Paige infuses each set with effortless improvisation, soulful expression, and a touch of modern flair. Whether serenading a cozy lounge or commanding a larger stage, she radiates a relaxing yet inspirational energy that resonates deeply with listeners.

With a dedication to creating intimate, spellbinding moments, Paige invites audiences into a world of musical magic—one where every note lingers, every lyric tells a story, and every performance becomes an unforgettable journey.