Four to Be Honored at LMC's 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Celebration

Event to recognize community leaders and student activists on February 26

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Los Medanos College is hosting its annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Celebration on February 26, 2026, honoring four individuals for their contributions to civil rights, social justice, and community leadership. The event will recognize an LMC student leader, a local resident dedicated to service, a visionary community advocate, and the keynote speaker, the Director of the City of Pittsburg's Department of Recreation.

Why it matters

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Celebration is a key part of LMC's yearlong acknowledgement of Black history and an opportunity to raise support for the LMC Foundation African American Student Scholarship. The honorees exemplify Dr. King's vision of the 'Beloved Community' and inspire others to make a difference through advocacy and service.

The details

The award categories include the Emerging Leadership Award, the Beloved Community Award, and the Visionary Leadership Award. The Emerging Leadership Award recognizes an LMC student or alumnus who has made a significant impact on campus or in the local community through social justice work. The Beloved Community Award honors a local resident with a long-standing commitment to service, while the Visionary Leadership Award recognizes a community member who embodies Dr. King's strengths as a transformational leader.

  • The celebration luncheon will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026 at 11 a.m.
  • The event is part of LMC's yearlong acknowledgement of Black history (BHM 365).

The players

Mina Jobe

An LMC student leader and youth activist passionate about social justice, especially women's and Indigenous rights. She uses writing, art, and advocacy to raise awareness and uplift her community.

Tianna Hicks

The vice president and co-founder of the Da Bigger Picture Non-Profit Foundation, which aims to create access and opportunity for youth through community programs, school partnerships, and events that build confidence. The organization supports families facing hunger and homelessness.

Dennisha Marsh

The executive director of the Parental African American Achievement Collaborative Team (PAAACT), a nonprofit organization dedicated to aligning essential educational and economic resources with underserved families in Contra Costa County. She serves on several city and county commissions and advisory committees.

Kolette Simonton

The Director of the City of Pittsburg's Department of Recreation, overseeing the Marina Community Center, Pittsburg Senior Center, and the city's park system. She is committed to providing diverse programs and expanding accessible, engaging, and inclusive opportunities for Pittsburg residents.

Chijioke Onyeagucha

An LMC student who is completing two associate degrees for transfer in journalism and business administration, while finishing his Honors Scholar Badge. He is passionate about reshaping narratives that have historically misrepresented and marginalized communities of color.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'”

— Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Antioch Herald)

“Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable...Every step toward the goal of justice requires sacrifice, suffering, and struggle; the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals.”

— Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Antioch Herald)

The takeaway

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Celebration at Los Medanos College highlights the ongoing commitment to civil rights, social justice, and community empowerment in East Contra Costa County. The honorees exemplify Dr. King's vision of the 'Beloved Community' and inspire others to follow in their footsteps, using their talents and passions to create positive change.