'You can change the world'

Dr. Patrick C. Graham (center), President and CEO of the Urban League of Central Carolinas, addressed students, faculty, and staff during an Upper School assembly celebrating the life and work of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Thursday, Jan. 20. Dr. Graham spoke about Dr. King and his aspirations for social justice and encouraged students to engage in discussions about issues facing society. “Of all the things I learned from Dr. King, courage stands out most,” he said. He told students that they are “the visionaries,” and that they “must be passionate about making something around [them] better.” He noted that Dr. King “believed in the authenticity of young people” and drew inspiration from them. Dr. Graham challenged the students to be society’s champions. “As young people who are not always bound by the past…you can influence us,” he said. “It is your moment…you can change the world.”