Trinity University welcomes Dr. Lerone A. Martin for the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Lecture Series with his presentation, Young King, on Thursday, January 22, at 7:00 p.m. in Stieren Theater.

We know the legacy Martin Luther King Jr. ultimately forged—but who was he at the beginning? How did his youth, formative experiences, and early influences shape his worldview, moral courage, and approach to activism and service? In Young King, Dr. Martin explores these questions by tracing the early roots of this legendary American figure through scholarship, compelling storytelling, and an examination of the foundations of King’s character, faith, and leadership.

Dr. Martin is the Centennial Professor of American Religion and Politics at Stanford University and serves as Faculty Director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Research and Education Institute.

The lecture is free and open to the public.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Lecture Series was established in 1994 at Trinity University and has been a cornerstone of the University's annual programming for more than 30 years. This signature event honors the life and legacy of Dr. King by fostering meaningful dialogue on civil rights, justice, and social responsibility. Each year, the lecture features a distinguished local, regional, or national speaker whose work embodies the spirit of equity, leadership, and social change that defined Dr. King’s life. The event brings together members of the campus community for an evening of reflection, inspiration, and conversation.

Special thanks to the Trinity University Office of People, Culture, and Community, Wells Fargo, and the City of San Antonio Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commission for their generous support of this event.