The Arkansas Martin Luther King Jr. Commission recently completed its national outreach initiative at the 2025 NBA Summer League July 14-18 in Las Vegas.
The outreach served to inspire civic engagement, strengthen public education and celebrate the spirit of service and leadership that defines King’s legacy, according to a news release.
“This trip was about proudly representing Arkansas while expanding what is possible for our communities,” said DuShun Scarbrough, executive director of the commission. “From the educators shaping classrooms to the coaches mentoring youth, we brought national attention to the everyday leaders who reflect Dr. King’s vision of nonviolence, empowerment, and service.”
Activities included:
July 15 — The commission led a special King Legacy Recognition Ceremony during halftime at the summer league, honoring: Warren LeGarie, executive director and co-founder of the NBA Summer League; Albert Hall, co-founder and president of HallPass Media; and Carole Hattar, director of community relations.
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
This presentation celebrated their efforts in building a global platform that aligns with the commission’s mission to inspire and empower through leadership and opportunity. Media icon and coach Percy “Master P” Miller assisted in the presentation, reinforcing the connection between sports, service, and social impact.
July 16 — Shanda Macon, educator and coordinator of the School of Innovation for the North Little Rock School District, was honored live on ESPN as the Education Appreciation Honoree. She was recognized for her groundbreaking work in transforming instruction and equipping students across Pulaski County and beyond for real-world success, according to the release.
July 18 — Coach Roderick Rogers, a longtime youth mentor from Fordyce, was celebrated as the Coaches Appreciation Honoree during a nationally televised ESPN halftime segment.
“In his 24th year of community service, Coach Rogers has empowered hundreds of Arkansas youth through AAU basketball and mentorship programs focused on leadership and scholarship,” according to the release.
To learn more about the commission’s statewide initiatives, visit www.arkingdream.org or follow @AMLKC on all major platforms via linktr.ee/AMLKC.