After months of debate, Penn State has officially decided to cancel classes on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, beginning in spring 2006.

"Its time for Penn State to recognize the national observance," university spokesman Tysen Kendig said. "We are hoping students use that time to continue the efforts that honor Martin Luther King."

He added Penn State is one of the few universities that has not given the day off in the past. Penn State and Northwestern University were the only Big Ten schools with classes on MLK Day.

Terrell Jones, vice provost for educational equity, said the decision represents Penn State's commitment to diversity and will give students more opportunity to participate in events and activities in honor of King.

Giovanna Genard, chair of the Commission On Racial/Ethnic Diversity (CORED), said the commission is "ecstatic" about the university's decision.

"Having the day off will allow students to participate with the community, as well as with the university and their families," she said.

She also praised the administration for being supportive of the need for a day off.

The commission has been meeting with the administration since early November to explore alternative ways to observe MLK Day, the cancellation of classes being one option it proposed.

Rodney Erickson, Executive Vice President and University Provost, said in an e-mail message the decision was arrived at after extensive discussion with the Faculty Senate, student groups and various Penn State commissions in support of diversity. He added comments from students and members of the Penn State community were also taken into consideration.

"I think definitely it's something positive when you look at the effect that Martin Luther King had on the country," Black Caucus President Ed Smith said. "To recognize him on this day is long overdue."

Smith added that he is hesitant some students might not use the day off to observe the holiday, but he felt more students overall would participate in activities and events.

"I imagine, for those students who would have otherwise participated had it not been for classes, those students will take part ... and hopefully bring others with them," he said.

Mariam Kaba, vice president of the African Students Association, said with the new cancellation of classes on MLK Day, she will finally be able to participate in the celebration.

"I know on MLK Day [in the past], I am so busy with classes and work, there is no way I can attend assemblies and guest speakers," Kaba said. "But if class was cancelled I would be able to see them."

Cassandra Veney, assistant professor of African and African-American studies, said she is not worried that some students may not participate in MLK Day.

"Those already committed will continue to be committed, and others will join in," she said.