Binghamton University hosts MLK Fireside Chat
As part of the 2026 MLK series, the campus welcomes Damola Adamolekun, CEO, Red Lobster Holdings
The Binghamton University Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, in partnership with the Distinguished Speaker committee, will host the MLK Series Fireside Chat with Damola Adamolekun on Wednesday, Jan. 28, at the Anderson Center Osterhout Concert Theater.
Adamolekun is the chief executive officer of the iconic global restaurant chain Red Lobster. At 35, he became the youngest CEO in the company’s history, overseeing its strategic growth and leading its recovery following the 2024 bankruptcy. He has been featured in publications such as the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Forbes, Business Insider, Fox Business, Bloomberg News, Time Out New York, New York Business Journal, and the Harvard Business Review. Adamolekun was recognized by Fortune Magazine as one of the 100 most powerful people in business and was named to Nation’s Restaurant News’ Power List of innovative and inspiring leaders in the restaurant industry.
The program includes opening performances, a moderated discussion with Adamolekun, and an audience question and answer session. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the event begins at 7 p.m. The MLK Series Fireside Chat is held annually to celebrate the life and legacy of the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr.
This free event is open to the public. However, tickets are required and can be obtained in advance through the Anderson Center Box Office.
Event sponsors include the Office of the President, Division of Advancement, Office of the Provost, Student Association Vice President of Multicultural Affairs, Binghamton University Fund, Student Association Programming Board and the Black Student Union.
2026 MLK Series features National Day of Community Healing
On Tuesday, Jan. 20, Binghamton will host the second annual National Day of Community Healing (NDOCH), a transformative day-long event dedicated to exploring the meaning of healing through dialogue, art and community engagement. The program features opening remarks, a land acknowledgement, music and breakout sessions. Discussion topics address identity, political, familial and friendship challenges, focusing on experiences related to race, religion, disability and LGBTQ+ identities. Students, faculty and community members are invited to participate in healing circles, a faculty panel, and art and music-based healing activities, as well as discussions on spiritual and mental health. The event features a keynote address by “Circlemamma” Denise Holliday.
For more information or to request accommodations, please contact Jen Smith, interim assistant director, UDiversity.