Penn State's Commonwealth Campuses are observing the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. in different ways.

Penn State Altoona College had a variety of events planned for the past week including an interfaith service, a musical tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and a unity banquet. The campus will also sponsor a day of service today.

Penn State Hazleton observed King's birthday with a multimedia performance, a movie series and an essay contest

The Berks-Lehigh Valley campus is honoring King today with the "Read in Reach out" program. Penn State students will go to area schools to encourage reading among school children. There will also be a showing of the one-man play The Meeting.

"The play describes the conversation that would have ensued had Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. been locked in a hotel room together," said John Gallagher, student activities coordinator.

Although the Commonwealth Campuses all have various ways of honoring King's birthday, all have similar hopes for the programs planned.

"We look forward to honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s tireless dedication to all people. We hope to actively have a dialogue to make this area a better place for all citizens," said Todd Taylor, director of multicultural affairs and international services at Penn State Altoona.