Highlands Consulting was honored to sponsor a table at last month’s Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Event at Sacramento State University. This meaningful event brought together a diverse group of community members including students, educators, religious groups, elected officials, law enforcement, and business leaders. It was a powerful way to honor and reflect on Dr. King’s enduring influence on civil rights and social justice.
The evening featured speakers who reflected on Dr. King’s legacy and the ongoing efforts in the state. While all the speakers were impactful, the keynote speaker, Lisa McNair, delivered a particularly powerful message of resilience, community, and hope. Her reflection on the 1963 bombing at the 16th Street Baptist Church which claimed the life of her sister, Denise McNair, offered a profound perspective on how tragedy can fuel positive change.
The event also awarded the 2025 Robert T. Matsui Community Service Award to James Wheatley for his work in the arts in Sacramento and his dedication to serving to underrepresented communities.
I am grateful that Highlands continues to sponsor this annual event. It’s hard to fully express how inspiring the evening was and the emotions that filled the room. I know I will continue to attend for many years to come.