Renovated AACRC Reveals UC's Black History

From UC News:

WATCH: Renovated African American Cultural and Resource Center Reveals UC’s Black History

The grand reopening celebration took place on Jan. 15, which marked the 84th birthday of Martin Luther King Jr.

Date: 1/17/2013 12:00:00 AM
By: Dawn Fuller
Phone: (513) 556-1823

Photos By: Dottie Stover

   

A packed house of UC students, staff, administrators, alumni and community members formally celebrated the grand reopening of UC’s African American Cultural and Resource Center (AACRC) on Jan. 15. The $325,000 renovations expand the AACRC to more than double its original capacity. The center had been closed for renovations since last August.

Revered alumna Marian Spencer (A&S ’42), University of Cincinnati President Santa J. Ono, and assistant AACRC director Ewaniki Moore-Hawkins (’02 and ’06, LCOB) performed the ribbon-cutting that formally kicked off the grand reopening ceremony. Eric Abercrumbie, director of the AACRC and Ethnic Programs and Services, performed the libation ceremony of pouring water on a plant to symbolize the past, present and future. 

“We know we’re not here because of us, so this is why we’re going to start with libation,” said Abercrumbie. “Libation is a ceremony where we recognize our ancestors, those who’ve gone on before.”

“I’m so proud that the university has a place like this to come together,” said President Ono. “I will say to you today that I am absolutely committed to continuing this dream.”