By 1808Delaware
Ohio Wesleyan University is opening 2026 with a full slate of public events, from its long-running Martin Luther King Jr. celebration to a winter lineup at the Richard M. Ross Art Museum that continues a campus-wide focus on environmental issues. Most events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.
January opens with reflection, art, and conversation, offering several chances to spend time on campus during the heart of winter.
The 33rd Annual MLK Celebration
Ohio Wesleyan’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration returns on Sunday, January 19, from 9:45 AM to 11:45 AM in the Benes Rooms of Hamilton-Williams Campus Center, 40 Rowland Ave., Delaware.
Doors open at 9:45 AM for this year’s program, themed “The Lantern Keepers: Preserving the Flame of Justice.” The keynote speaker is Sierra Austin-King, Ph.D., assistant professor of Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and Black Studies. Austin-King brings teaching and research experience from The Ohio State University, Denison University, and the Ohio Reformatory for Women.
The morning includes brunch, a blessing from Pastor Alvin Asiamah of Soul Restoration Ministry, and a performance by professional vocalist, actress, and educator Chrissy T.
Individual tickets are $35, with sponsorships available at $260 for a table of eight. Tickets may be purchased online through January 10. Proceeds support the Delaware County MLK Scholarship Program. Details and ticket information are available at owu.edu/MLK.
Richard M. Ross Art Museum Winter Exhibitions
The Richard M. Ross Art Museum continues its year-long exploration of environmental themes with three exhibitions opening or continuing in January. The museum will be closed for winter break from December 15 through January 13.
Opening January 13 and running through March 29, “The Water Holds Me” by Suda House features photography rooted in personal vision and environmental awareness. A free opening reception will be held January 27 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. House, based in California, describes photography as a “magical medium” that encourages viewers to see the world through individual perspective. More information is available at sudahouse.com.
Continuing through March 29, “Demarcations and Delineations” by Michelle Stitzlein transforms discarded materials from the waste stream into imagined landscapes and topographies. Stitzlein’s work reconsiders what society throws away and how those materials can be re-shaped into something visually compelling. Learn more at artgrange.com/michellesculpture.html.
Also continuing through March 29 is “Our Changing Landscape: Life in the Anthropocene,” an exhibition curated to support Ohio Wesleyan’s First Year Seminar curriculum. Featuring work by more than 30 artists, the exhibit examines human-driven environmental change, responses to climate challenges, and visions for a more sustainable future.
Art and the Environment Talk Series
In collaboration with the Department of Environment & Sustainability, the Ross Art Museum will host a January talk series bringing artists and scholars into direct conversation about environmental issues.
On January 20 at 6:30 PM, Michelle Stitzlein will present “Reuse as Art.” The Ohio-based artist will discuss how she uses industrial waste such as hoses, tubing, and electrical wire to create sculptural works inspired by natural forms.
On January 27 at 6:30 PM, Suda House will present “Women, Arts in the Plastic Age.” A photographer and retired Grossmont College professor, House focuses on women’s strength and environmental concerns, including recent work tied to the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and the Pleiades.
Children and Family Programming
The Ross Art Museum also offers January activities designed for families and younger visitors.
On January 18 at 2:00 PM, families are invited to a children’s MLK Day storytime followed by a make-and-take peace sign craft. The activity is free and open to all ages.
On January 25 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, the museum will host a Community Mending Circle featuring sewing, crocheting, and knitting. Participants are encouraged to bring projects and spend time connecting with neighbors.
Visiting the Ross Art Museum
The Richard M. Ross Art Museum is located at 60 S. Sandusky St. in downtown Delaware. During the academic year, hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Thursday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM; and Sunday from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The museum is closed Mondays and Saturdays.
The facility is handicap-accessible, and admission is always free. For more information, call (740) 368-3606 or visit owu.edu/Ross or facebook.com/RossArtMuseum.
All Ohio Wesleyan public events are subject to change. The latest updates are available at owu.edu/calendar. Athletic events are listed at battlingbishops.com.
