Founder Overview

OVERVIEW

The Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Committee of Nassau County, Inc. is a private, not-for-profit 501(c)(3) corporation and was founded by president, genealogical expert, and long-time community advocate Mr. Julius O. Pearse.  All proceeds go to Nassau County High School seniors who have won the Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Celebration Essay Contests.  The sitting County Executive serves as Honorary Chair to the acheivement and spirit of this committee.

ABOUT THE FOUNDER:  Julius O. Pearse

Mr. Pearse has long been dedicated to improving scholarship among Nassau Youth over his life.  Mr. Pearse has had the opportunity to work with legendary community and civic leaders such as John Kearse, former Legislator Roger H. Corbin and via Nassau County government, over decades and several county executives in this mission to improve our county and world.  The Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee of Nassau County, Inc. is approaching its "27th" Annual Celebration and a Milestone of giving throughout the years of 'the best gift one can give, the promise of education via scholarship.' 

Mr. Pearse is also a proud husband, father, and partner to community leader and Executive Director Mrs. Joysetta Pearse of African Atlantic Genealogical Society and also a Certified Genealogist; as President herself - Genealogy Federation of Long Island, Inc; a Producer - Living History Theater Group; and, a Member-Zoning Board of Appeals (Village of Freeport) where the Pearse family resides.

ORGANIZATION MISSION:

In honor of this great American, the County Executive and the citizens of this county, have deemed it important to hold a special commemorative celebration in an effort to recapture the spirit of full equality which was the essence of the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and to remind us all that the many concerns that he lived for remain today as relevant as they were in the 1960's.  In order for this commemorative celebration to be successful and rach every citizen of our county in a way that will have a positive impact on their lives and the lives of others, we have adopted the theme "PEOPLE WORKING AND LIVING TOGETHER."  We welcome the business, religious, educational communities, joining with government, labor and our youth, in support of this county-wide commemorative celebration.

Founder Julius O. Pearse and Executive Committee Chair Rodney H. McRae pictured below.