La Vergne, Tennessee - As the nation prepares to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., La Vergne is set to host its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Ceremony on Monday, January 15, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. The event will take place in the boardroom at La Vergne City Hall, located at 5093 Murfreesboro Road.
This year's ceremony promises to be a powerful and meaningful tribute to Dr. King, featuring distinguished speakers who embody his spirit of service and community engagement. Pastor Joe E. Randle, Jr., and Commissioner Hope Oliver will take the stage to share their insights and reflections on the ongoing quest for equality and justice (Click Here for more).
About Pastor Joe E. Randle, Jr: A true patriot and community leader, Joe E. Randle, Jr. served in the U.S. Air Force from 1967, receiving training and education on aircraft weapon systems. With two tours in Southeast Asia, one in Europe, and numerous assignments in the Mediterranean, Joe's dedication to service continued as he became an instructor for the Air Force's Professional Military Education program. After retiring in 1990, Joe relocated to Middle Tennessee in 1995, working with the Metro/Davidson County General Session Court. In 2022, he assumed the role of Pastor at Mt. View M.B. Church, where he has been a devoted member for over two decades.
About Commissioner Hope Oliver: La Vergne is proud to have Commissioner Hope Oliver, the first Black woman elected to represent District 1 on the Rutherford County Commission, as part of the ceremony. A Memphis native and La Vergne resident for 24 years, Commissioner Oliver is an accomplished professional with a BS in Dental Hygiene, an M. Ed in Curriculum and Instruction, and ongoing pursuits of a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Rockhurst University. Her extensive career includes roles as a registered dental hygienist, educator, CPR Instructor, curriculum consultant, and advocate for social action. Commissioner Oliver's commitment extends to various organizations, including the Rutherford County Democratic Party, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, and Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, Incorporated, where she serves as Parliamentarian.
Other than the La Vergne City Hall opening for the Monday even, all city offices and buildings will be closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Regular operations will resume on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, at 8:00 a.m.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure their seats and partake in the light refreshments that will be served. This annual ceremony is an opportunity for the community to unite, reflect, and carry forward Dr. King's vision of a more just and equitable society.
