27th Annual Remembering Martin Luncheon
January 21, 2013
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
The event will be at The Hotel at Kirkwood
7725 Kirkwood Blvd., Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Keynote speaker: Dr. Ruth White. Click here to read Ruth’s bio.
Since 1986, the Remembering Martin luncheon has been an important part of the celebration of the Martin Luther King holiday in our community. Commemorating the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. and recognizing student leaders from throughout the area, the luncheon has become a must-attend event for the observance of the holiday with crowds of more than 500 people. This event unites non-profit agencies, schools, corporations, philanthropists and students for a one-of-a-kind affair.
Video from the 2013 event
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Photos from the 2013 event
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Background
The event recognized over 20 student leaders who demonstrate Dr. King’s honorable characteristics through their volunteer work, school attendance and positive behavior. Invitations to participate have been extended to each middle school and high school in the Cedar Rapids area.
In addition to the event, Coe College, HACAP, Mt. Mercy University, and United Way of East Central Iowa have come together to provide ways for our community to serve each other on the day.
For the day of service, help us keep area food pantries stocked this winter by donating non-perishable food items for our Food Drive. Many families receive food assistance over the holidays, afterwards though, donations tend to drop off. All donations will go to the HACAP food reservoir to support area food pantries. Donations can be dropped off at the MLK Luncheon. To learn more about the Day of Service Project, click here.
A preview of the event can be heard below:
Erica Bergfeld previews 2013 MLK Luncheon on Kat and Andy Show
To view the video from the 2012 event, click here.
2013 honorees
Jazmine Allen
Metro High School
Jazmine displays the leadership qualities of adhering to a goal and acceptance of those around her. She is welcoming of those newcomers and shows great empathy towards them because she was once herself a newcomer. Jazmine is quick to recognize when others are in need of a kind word. Jazmine is an active member of the volleyball team and is an accomplished artist. She has helped with a research project at the History Center and prepared art work for the New Bo Art Show.
Bryan Banowetz
Xavier High School
Bryan has dedicated himself to service, demonstrating his respect for people and his passion for helping others. He uses his role as a leader to bring people together. He has inspired his classmates to serve others in school, our community and our world. Bryan is the drum major of the marching band, member of concert band, jazz band and pep band. He has been part of twelve musical/theatrical productions, and is president of the Thespians. He was also selected homecoming king this year.
Hannah Borsay
Roosevelt Middle School
As a leader in school, Hannah sets an example to other students by modeling respect to others, personal best, active listening skills, responsibility, and trustworthiness. Through her numerous extracurricular activities, Hannah works with a wide range of people. Her volunteer activities go above and beyond a typical student. Hannah has been active in intramural athletics, the school play, soccer, basketball, cross country, student council, RMS Show Choir and many other activities.
Jacqueline Brock
St. Joseph Catholic School
Jackie is an open, caring person who always makes an effort to see that all students are involved and treated equally. She serves as the Student Council President, is in the Kindergarten Buddy program, and the School Musical. She has participated on the school volleyball and track teams, in FSEA, American Math Exam, and choir. Jackie volunteers with The Salvation Army’s kettle bell ringers, Knights of Columbus’ Tootsie Roll Drive, Light the Night Cancer Walk, Especially for You Walk, United Way Pacesetters Youth Volunteer and many other activities.
Baylea Bruce
Vernon Middle School
Baylea has done community service work with the Linn County Fair, she volunteers at Cottage Grove Place working with the elderly, donates clothes to Goodwill and has adopted two dogs from the Humane Society.
Laina Burrell
Linn-Mar High School
Laina is welcoming, friendly, and accepting of all students. Her volunteer experiences focus on helping others. Laina stood out as a student whose heart is always in the right place and who then follows through with action. Laina is involved with volleyball, tennis, Students Opposed to Drugs & Alcohol, Teens Reaching Youth, Student Ambassador, Future Business Leaders of America, tutoring, and CORDS volunteering. Outside of school, she is involved with Leadership for Five Seasons, dance, and assists a woman with Alzheimer’s three times a week.
Jeffrey Chambers Jr.
Cedar Rapids Washington High School
Jeffrey is respected by both his peers and the entire faculty at Washington. He is an exemplary school citizen and a quiet but strong leader. He can regularly be found helping students with homework during lunch or lending a helpful ear to students that might have a problem. Jeffrey is a member of Committee WHS and a member of ADASTRA – Washington’s chapter of the national honor society. He volunteers as a basketball coach for the YMCA, is a Food Box volunteer, and has participated in the Relay for Life. Jeffrey is also the Boys and Girls Club’s State Youth of the Year.
Nick Connolly
Marion High School
Nick exemplifies Dr. King’s philosophy by intuitively sensing the needs of others who remain invisible to the rest of the world. His kind, unassuming way enhances other’s self-esteem. Nick is involved in football, basketball, track, and baseball. He is also a member of the National Council on Youth Leadership, member of the One Day in May Committee which is the largest school community service day in Iowa, and the Billy Madison Project. Nick has spent a lot of time volunteering for local parks and rec teams. He is involved with church service opportunities.
Dalvin Dixon
Kennedy High School
Dalvin’s presence is known throughout Kennedy High School. He shows compassion for others, especially those less fortunate. Dalvin is open-minded, participates in discussions, asks thoughtful questions and truly tries to grasp new ways of thinking. He soaks up each experience and shares what he has learned with others. He has been a varsity athlete in football, wrestling and track. Dalvin is in a leadership role in Student Government. Dalvin has also participated in the Best Buddies Program and as a leader of Motivating the Teen Spirit.
Avery Guy
Taft Middle School
Avery has been a model student since she started at Taft Middle School. She is trustworthy, has earned the respect of her teachers and peers and is considered a role model. Through her involvement in Taft’s Leadership Program she has worked hard to help Taft become a safe, fun and educational place for all students. She is also very involved in sports. She has been playing AAU basketball, ASA softball and club volleyball. She is currently serving meals to raise money for a mission trip to El Salvador.
Spencer Henningsen
McKinley Middle School
Spencer believes that kindness can change the world. Spencer is a polite student, good listener, and hard worker. He gets along with his classmates. Spencer has been involved in MAAAP (McKinley African American Awareness Program), the summer STEM Academy, magazine sales, band, and music technology. He has participated in football, baseball, and basketball. He has also helped raise money for Waypoint, the Cedar Valley Humane Society, and a cat clinic in Jones County.
Raven Johnson
Jefferson High School
Raven strives to make all students feel comfortable at Jefferson and demonstrates what hard work can do for students. He continues to work hard every day in the classroom and has continually improved throughout his time at Jefferson. Raven has been involved with football for the last four years and was voted as captain this year by his teammates. Raven also is involved in IJAG (Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates) and serves as a leader with that program. Raven recently organized a fundraiser for victims of Hurricane Sandy.
Kelsey Levi
Prairie Point Middle School
Kelsey believes that every person deserves the chance to be who they want to be. Kelsey is involved in volleyball, tennis, and the arts. She was cast in the fall play, is in the NEIBA Honor Band, and the eighth grade select choir. Additionally, she is involved with the Best Buddies program, has participated in the State Future Problem Solving, State Lego League and the Road Less Traveled Conference. Kelsey volunteers at Prairie View Elementary every week, helps at her church’s Kolach Festival and vacation bible school, and babysits for the ELL PTI meetings.
Austin Maus
Harding Middle School
Austin is a young man who has made a difference at Harding Middle School. Austin is involved in student leadership, football, basketball, Optimist speech, Future Cities 4000, show choir, and drama. Austin has been involved in club basketball and club baseball through Jr. Cougars. He has volunteered his time to ring the bell for The Salvation Army through student leadership and is active in his church.
Connor Miller
LaSalle Middle School
Connor is an extremely humble servant to his church, his school and community. He demonstrates in his daily activities that he is a person of faith, an active learner in the classroom, is a person of integrity, and has fun getting the most out of his Holy Family education. Connor has the lead in the school musical of Fiddler on the Roof. He is in show choir, band, speech, and student council. Outside of school, he is a scout in Troop 33, an altar server and musician for St. Jude Parish, Youth Ambassador, and fund raiser for Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
Taylor Petersen
Prairie High School
Taylor has diversified himself in many of his activities, and he is passionate about helping others especially through his own passion—music. Taylor has a great personality and is a caring individual. At Prairie, Taylor is very involved in the Fine Arts programs. He is involved in band and vocal music and wants to continue his passion in music after high school. Taylor has been involved in the student council throughout high school and is currently serving as an officer. Additionally, Taylor is involved in National Honor Society, Best Buddies, and the drama department.
Lacretia Pledge
Franklin Middle School
Lacretia Pledge is an individual who has made positive choices at Franklin Middle School. She has modeled behavior in the classroom both academically and socially and is respected by her peers. Lacretia has been an active and positive member of the Franklin African American Awareness Program for three years. In addition to playing basketball at Franklin, she has involved herself in drama and FAAAP pen pal program. Lacretia has participated in Boys and Girls Clubs, volunteered at Meals on Wheels, and been part of the clean-up crew for Fish O’ Rama.
Faith Satern
Regis Middle School
Faith is a true leader and outstanding advocate for her peers. She will take the time to stand up for the rights of all students. She also takes the time to help and support students who at times may feel left out. She is a member of a new leadership group at school called RAF (Royal Ambassadors of Faith). Faith leads by example and helps to set up for weekly liturgy at school. She participates in many fine arts activities including: choir, show choir, band and has been a four-year participant in OPUS honor choir. She partakes in many parish activities.
AAlyiah Watkins
Wilson Middle School
AAlyiah is highly looked upon by teachers and staff members at Wilson Middle School. Her involvement in school and her dedication to what she is involved in elevates her above the average eighth grader. AAlyiah is respected by her peers, which is evident in the respect they show her both for how she acts and the decisions she makes. AAlyiah is involved in swimming, basketball, volleyball, track, Student Leadership, Youth Leadership program, and church activities for Gospel Tabernacle.
Andrew Wood
Excelsior Middle School
Andrew brings out the best in those around him. His actions demonstrate true character and leadership. Andrew has demonstrated the ability to be a good friend, leader, and positive bystander at Excelsior Middle School. He stands up for students who need a defender. He does this because it’s the right thing to do. Andrew participates in basketball and football. He also works with special needs students during his lunch and free time during school. Andrew enjoys playing basketball, golf, as well as working out at The MAC and the YMCA.
Ji Yeon (Bona) In
Oak Ridge Middle School
Bona exemplifies Dr. King’s philosophy because she believes that all students should be treated equal. Bona makes all people that she encounters feel accepted. Bona is involved in several activities including soccer, track, student council and SODA. She also partakes in the musical sections of the school: orchestra, chamber orchestra, vocal, and show choir. Student council, Jr. SODA, MYFI (Make You Feel Important), and LAUGH (a student group) are other things Bona is occupied with which are extremely fun because she is able to help other people.
Spencer Zielke
Cedar Valley Christian School
Spencer was nominated for this award because of his unselfishness and his love of others. Spencer has a heart for others. Spencer is involved in football, basketball, baseball and is a member of the concert choir. Spencer also led a group of fans that came to all of the volleyball games this year, home and away, to support the team. Most of Spencer’s activities benefit the Cedar Valley Christian School community, but he has been involved with Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a youth basketball camp, and helped coach a youth basketball team.
Past honorees:
Cedar Valley Christian 2012 Carly Silver, 2011 Ethan Uphouse
Excelsior Middle School 2012 Jenna Printy, 2011 Ricky Hoobler, 2010 Lesi Wright, 2009 Bailey Higgins, 2008 Carol Malerich, 2007 Sarah House, 2006 Angela Lancaster, 2005 Lindsey Seufferlein
Franklin MS 2012 Salia Savelio, 2011 Kendall Dooley, 2010 Bria Lenten, 2009 Makayla Kellner, 2008 Iman Kashmola, 2007 Adam Sailor, 2006 Jamesetta Mator, 2005 Landon Pickens, 2004 Fatima Wagdy, 2003 Sosan Azmeh, 2002 Clayton Besong, 2001 Cherise Holliday, 2000 Ashley Grimm, 1999 Anais Williams, 1998 Tina Holliday, 1997 Tyree Patrick
Harding MS 2012 Linden Runels, 2011 Abhinaya Gunasekar, 2010 Ananya Munjal, 2009 Alexus Rogers, 2008 Sanjay Sudhir, 2007 Jasmine Todora, 2006 Shayma Elsheikh, 2005 Ashwath Gunasekar, 2004 Jacob Spiekermeie,r 2003 Ambrosia Dixon, 2002 Jennifer Plagman, 2001 Cierra French, 2000 Shiny Parsai, 1997 Kristen Hariston
Jefferson HS 2012 Iisha Morrison, 2011 LeBon Kayamba Mulangaliro, 2010 Jonathan Williams 2009 Emoni Davis, 2008 Blaire Wilson, 2007 Chris Sheppard, 2006 Natalia Lawson, 2005 Brittney Wilson, 2004 Olivia Pikokivaka, 2003 Vanessa Sheppard, 2002 Tiesha Walker, 2001 Morgen Edwards, 2000 Matt Bryant, 1999 Fanaye Kifletsakik, 1998 Richard Cook, 1997 Krista Johnson
Kennedy HS 2012 Capria Davis, 2011 Herschel Dixon Jr., 2010 Shaniqua Ford, 2009 Agatha Ogaga, 2008 Jalisa Coleman, 2007 Fabien Benjamin, 2006 Andrea Alnutt, 2005 Allison Green, 2004 Latrice Pledge, 2003 John Hairston, 2002 Kristin Hairston, 2001 Christopher Brown, 2000 Jessica Brown, 1999 Selinya Carew, 1998 Gregory Remson, 1997 Shanta Franklin
LaSalle MS 2012 Adriana Baca, 2011 Dylan Eller, 2010 Bailey O’Brien, 2009 Trey Sampson, 2008 Hannah Welch
Linn-Mar HS 2012 Katie Ramsey, 2011 Sara Puffer, 2010 Lindsey Hines, 2009 Nathalie Folkerts, 2008 Rebecca Eiben, 2007 Megan Greer, 2006 Jim Dvorak
Marion HS 2012 Emily Roberts, 2011 Kasey Semler, 2010 Ieshia Brown, 2009 Brittney Thomas, 2008 Rachel Smith, 2007 Andrew Tyne, 2006 Ben Messerli, 2005 Alisabeth Caraway
McKinley MS 2012 Darian Thompson, 2011 Joshua Nzeyimana, 2010 Denzell Hayes, 2009 Amira Nash, 2008 Cassie Ward, 2007 Cheyenne Wright, 2006 Rhia Smith, 2005 Jessica Ramsden- Hardiman, 2004 Esthella Kamara, 2003 Taylor Williams, 2002 Denise Johnson, 2001 Mariono Duke, 2000 LaNeisha Waller, 1999 Ernie Williams, 1998 Jason Robinson, 1997 Chante Thurmond
Metro HS 2012 Patrick Conlon, 2011 Jared Johnson, 2010 Samantha Floyd, 2009 Tedrick Lindsey, 2008 Bethany Schumacher, 2007 Matt Davis, 2006 Randall Adams, 2005 Angela Blake, 2004 Rebecca Char, 2003 Cierra Steward, 2002 Amecia Denise Walter 2001 Tamycka Johnson, 2000 Amber Robinson, 1999 Katie Fields, 1998 Jesse Mally, 1997 Libby Hernden
Oak Ridge MS 2012 Sruthi Palaniappan, 2011 Annie Stevenson, 2010 Kaitlin Schlegel
Prairie HS 2012 Jawon DeMarr Walker, 2011 Katelyn Carver, 2010 Deng Xayasouk, 2009 Alex Hanna, 2008 Beth Carver, 2007 Sonya Krivanek, 2006 Jonah Legg, 2005 Allison Mollman
Prairie Point MS 2012 Neila Bell, 2011 Mikinzie Farmer, 2010 Holly Wisnousky, 2009 Chelsey Montgomery 2008 Alison Speltz, 2007 Katelyn Carver, 2006 Scott Bredman, 2005 Alex Hanna
Regis MS 2012 Sean Murphy, 2011 Christine Jengwa, 2010 Madeline Walker, 2009 Patrick Mullin, 2008 Hannah Rochford, 2007 Kimmy Askelson, 2006 Marissa Satern, 2005 Meghan Lukan
Roosevelt MS 2012 Francis Odubasa, 2011 Marissa Knoot, 2010 Trey Hill, 2009 Amy Sigo, 2008 Lenora West, 2007 Eveline Niyokwizigigwa, 2006 Cassandra Lingo, 2005 Khiry Hopkins, 2004 Mianna Barner, 2003 Innocent Ndayinzeye 2002 Gracia Munyakazi, 2001 Holly Johnson, 2000 Papis Sabbah, 1999 Steffan Williams, 1998 Morgen Edwards, 1997 Jade Kacer
St. Joseph Catholic 2012 Aaron Stark
Taft MS 2012 Connor Hammons, 2011 Drew Wall, 2010 Aria Polglaze-Carter 2009 Draziyo Amuda, 2008 Anecia White, 2007 Ann Pham, 2006 Robin Hager, 2005 Justin Simmons, 2004 Reema Ajram, 2003 Nabihah Ahmed, 2002 Natalia Lawson, 2001 Allison Green, 2000 Vanessa Sheppard, 1999 Starlet Smith, 1998 Noella Niati, 1997 Shanna Sheppard
Vernon MS 2012 Makayla Beik, 2011 Danica Chalstrom, 2010 Daniel Tribble, 2009 Daquan Bradley, 2008 Naomi Spence, 2007 Shakia Boddie, 2006 Tre Kinney, 2005 Danika T’nae Sam, 2004 LeAnne Clayvon
Washington HS 2012 Tyler Burrell, 2011 Brandon Besong, 2010 Maggie Schneidermann, 2009 Tosha Harrison, 2008 Micha Mims, 2007 Mikaela Fisher, 2006 Stacey Walker, 2005 Brandon Bernard, 2004 Joy Mims, 2003 Poul Collins, 2002 Shawn Cox, 2001 Garrison Goodlett, 2000 Chris Reed, 1999 Victor Clark, 1998 Renata Clay, 1997 Cymaron Dawson
Wilson MS 2012 Emily O’Brien, 2011 Alyssa Olson, 2010 Trae Morgan, 2009 Donyelle Dorsey, 2008 Antoinette Uwangombwa, 2007 Tierrah Cross-Sykes 2006 Chatara Davis, 2005 Mirclavia Jones, 2004 Joycelyn Barnett, 2003 Janessa Senter, 2002 Tiffany Threatt, 2001 Courtney Bradley, 2000 Darcel Martin, 1999 Tiesha Walker, 1998 Tanisha Wesley
Xavier HS 2012 Kerry McCartan, 2011 Abigale Bedard, 2010 Dylan Martin, 2009 Megan Smith, 2008 Dana Terrones, 2007 Kate Chizek, 2006 Casey O’Connell, 2005 Megan Black
Past keynote speaker:
2012 Romonda D. Blecher, District Associate Judge (Click here to read more on Judge Blecher), 2011 Karl Cassell, 2010 Renee Sneitzer, 2009 Akwi Nji-Dawson, 2008 Stacey Walker, 2007 Rod Dooley, 2006 Anne Carter, 2005 Primus Ridgeway(Rockwell Collins), 2004 Carl Raye
Remembering Martin Luncheon Committee
Kimberly Abram-Bryant, Dr. Dave Benson, Erica Bergfeld, Tim Carson, Dwayne Daniels, Sue Driscoll, Erin Kiefer O’Halloran, Jerry Matchett, Steve Menzner, Tom Moore, Chad Simmons, Oather Taylor, Christoph Trappe
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