FAMU Announces Darrick McGhee as 2026 MLK Convocation Speaker
Tallahassee, Fla. – Florida A&M University (FAMU) announces alumnus Darrick D. McGhee Sr., pastor of Bible Based Church, will deliver the keynote address for the 2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation. The event is scheduled on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026, at 10:10 a.m. in Lee Hall Auditorium and will be livestreamed on YouTube.
“As a civic leader and distinguished public servant, Pastor Darrick McGhee’s reflections on Dr. King’s enduring impact and the relevance of his principles in addressing contemporary challenges will deeply inspire and resonate with our student body and the campus community,” said President Marva B. Johnson, J.D. “His keynote address will challenge attendees to consider the role of higher education in developing leaders equipped to serve with purpose, integrity, and compassion.”
McGhee’s career reflects a deep commitment to service, civic engagement, and ethical leadership—principles central to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He currently serves as president and CEO of Strategic Inflection Point, LLC, a professional development firm specializing in executive coaching, leadership development, and strategic advisory services. In addition, McGhee serves as chief operating officer for Johnson & Blanton, LLC, providing counsel on government relations and public affairs. His career in public service includes senior leadership roles across multiple Florida state agencies and gubernatorial administrations, most notably as director of Legislative Affairs for the Executive Office of the Governor of Florida, where he helped shape and advance key legislative priorities.
Beyond his professional work, McGhee is the founding pastor of Bible Based Church in Tallahassee, where he has led ministry and community outreach efforts for more than a decade. He is also an accomplished writer, speaker, and podcaster whose work explores the intersection of faith, leadership, education, and social responsibility. His extensive civic involvement includes service on statewide boards and commissions focused on education, workforce development, and community advancement.
A proud FAMU graduate, McGhee earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science and religion and has since built a career spanning more than 25 years in state government, public policy, and community leadership.
The annual MLK Convocation is a signature university event that honors the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through reflection, dialogue, and a renewed commitment to justice, service, and transformative leadership.
Media Contact:
Alonda Thomas
Vice President of Communications and Marketing
alonda.thomas@famu.edu
