About the Marcus Garvey Cultural Center
The Marcus Garvey Cultural Center was established in 1983 in response to the unique needs of students who identified as Black and/or African American. The purpose of the center was, and continues to exist as a space where students feel supported. In addition to the primary focus of supporting students, the staff of the Marcus Garvey Cultural Center also assists in the education and cultural advancement of the broader university community, highlighting the experiences and culture of people who identify with or within the African diaspora.
Our Why
Haven.
We provide a place of emotional safety, which includes favorable conditions and opportunities, in order to support holistic growth and development, for Black Diasporic students, staff, and faculty.
Our How
Community.
We prioritize a relational, culturally informed community development model that removes barriers to access at the university and access to resources and support in the MGCC.
Our What
Relationships.
We will build relationships within our community through an open-door center model, hosting and collaborating on educational, social, civic and university engagement, and through advisement and partnership with student and civic organizations that prioritize Black Diasporic students, staff and faculty.
Operating Philosophy
Take advantage of every opportunity; where there is none, make it for yourself (Marcus M. Garvey). We do this by utilizing the following foundational concepts:
- Umoja unity of the family, community, and race; We engage in stewardship within our community through support and engagement across campus & events.
- Sankofa to go back and get it; We engage our community through mentoring and advising relationships, in order to create continuity and legacy on campus.
- Ubuntu I am because we are; We engage in personal and interpersonal development and exploration, in order to create understanding, competency and skill acquisition for community members.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students will:
- Describe their salient and intersecting identities
- Describe the role and purpose of community
- Exhibit a sense of community-mindedness
- Describe factors that impact the health and wellness for themselves
- Develop a plan for student academic success
- Demonstrate interpersonal and intrapersonal skills
Priorities for the Center
Education
MGCC’s education priority is to create and continue building an environment focused on the academic success of students.
Unity
MGCC’s unity priority is to create opportunities for the community to come together to uplift, support, and guide one another with care. Umoja!
Security
MGCC’s security priority is to continually work towards providing safe, nurturing spaces.
Social Development
MGCC’s social development priority is to build and maintain relationships through event planning and community outreach. Additionally, we aim to foster safe spaces to engage in critical thinking.
Economics
MGCC’s economics priority is to educate and support students learning and practice around financial concerns.
Politics
MGCC’s political priority is create opportunities to learn about and engage in the political landscape.
