Multicultural Center

Artist's Rendition of the New Multicultural Center on Murray Street

Artist's Rendition of new Multicultural Center

Update - April 7, 2008

A groundbreaking ceremony was held September 28, 2007. Construction, which began October 22nd, required temporary closing of Murray Street / C.T. Vivian Way between the Beu Health Center and the North end of Sherman Drive. The 12-14 month construction period is projected to be completed November 2008, with a Grand Opening of the new Multicultural Center during Spring 2009.

Background Data

Western Illinois University is committed to access, diversity, and the provision of high-quality academic programs and co-curricular services that emphasize lifelong learning and success inside and outside of the classroom (Illinois Commitment, Goals 3, 4, and 5). The University’s Strategic Plan places strong emphasis on the recruitment and retention of high-achieving and diverse students, faculty, and staff. In order to enhance the participation and achievement of all members of the campus community and to demonstrate institutional and statewide commitments to diversity, new facilities are needed.

The Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center, the African-American cultural center, was demolished in summer 2002 due to building safety issues. It is temporarily housed in the University Services Building. Likewise, Casa Latina, the Latin American Cultural Center was decommissioned after the spring 2007 due to significant building code and A.D.A.-compliance issues. It has been temporarily relocated to Olson Hall.

A new multipurpose cultural center demonstrates institutional and statewide commitments to diversity and promotes individual achievements (Illinois Commitment, Goals 4 and 5). It centrally locates programs and services, facilitates resource sharing, and avoids the unnecessary duplication of services and facilities (Illinois Commitment, Goal 6). The new facility and programs will also have close working relationships and proximity with alumni programs and services. The Strategic Plan emphasizes alumni commitment and partnership in University initiatives.

Scope

The new Western Illinois University-Macomb Multicultural Center is proposed as a 14,000 gross square feet structure. The new facility will be built in the area vacated by the removal of the Auxiliary Service Building on Murray Street across from the University Union.

The new Multicultural Center will house the Casa Latina Cultural Center, the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center, the Women's Center, and the International Friendship Club upon completion.

Timeline

Timeline is being coordinated with the plans for the the development of Murray Street into a pedestrian walkway, while still providing emergency vehicle access.

Contact Information

Ted Renner
Construction Project Coordinator II
Facilities Planning and Construction
Western Illinois University
1 University Circle
Macomb, Illinois 61455-1390
Phone: 309-298-1834, ext 261
Fax: 309-298-1695
T-Renner@wiu.edu