| w History
The University of Georgia Office of Minority Services and Programs (MSP) was established in 1989. The Black Faculty and Staff Organization and the President’s Minority Advisory Committee (PMAC) were instrumental in gaining support and approval from then UGA President, Charles Knapp to establish MSP. Dr. Leslie K. Bates was chosen as the first director of MSP. Five years later, in 1994, the African American Cultural Center was founded through a collaborative effort of the Division of Student Affairs, African American Studies department and members of the Black Faculty and Staff Organization for the purpose of creating an environment of cultural growth, sensitivity and appreciation of African American History and the contributions of the African Diaspora. During the early years, the Cultural Center hosted the African American Diaspora Lecture Series, Liberation Lecture Series, Artist in Residence Program, performances by the Pamoja Dance Company and the Black Theatrical Ensemble as well as visiting artists. Effective July 1, 2004, the African American Cultural Center became an independent unit within the Dean of Students. In 2005 MSP changed its name from the Minority Services and Programs to Multicultural Services and Programs. On July 1, 2006, the Department of Intercultural Affairs was established as a result of restructuring within the Division of Student Affairs and the African American Cultural Center became one of three units placed in that department. Effective July 1, 2009 the African American Cultural Center re-joined the Office of Multicultural Services and Programs.
|
|
wMission
The Office of Multicultural Services and Programs promotes student development through educational programs, cultural awareness and leadership activities. These components will create inclusion and retention in the University of Georgia community with the support of students, alumni, faculty and staff. We value and celebrate diversity, similarities among cultures, and the appreciation of everyone.
The African American Cultural Center (AACC) exists to assist the University in its mission of creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for African American students. The Cultural Center provides a venue where students of the African Diaspora can network with one another, meet new people, learn about their cultural heritage and traditions, display their talents, and implement programs. The AACC also promotes academic excellence in all students through the Abeneefoo Kuo Honor Society and the Rite of Sankofa Graduation programs. The objectives of the African American Cultural Center are:
- To provide cultural outlets for student talent through various organizations
- and venues; i.e. Black Theatrical Ensemble, Pamoja Dance Company and
- Artist exhibitions.
- To provide programs and activities that foster networking and relationship
- building across the campus and in the local African American Community.
- To recognize the achievements of academic excellence; i.e. Rite of Sankofa
- Graduation Celebration Program, and Abeneefoo Kuo Honor Society.
- To celebrate the historical achievements of African Americans through
- Black History Month Programming.
- To serve as an informational resource through the book and video library.
|
