University News

Simien Named Director of WIU's GBCC

August 26, 2015

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MACOMB, IL - Western Illinois University has hired Carl Simien as the director of the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center (GBCC).

Simien is the former college and career director of the Umoja Student Development Corporation in Chicago.

"It is an exciting privilege to join Western Illinois University as director of the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center," said Simien. "Relocating to Macomb has been a delight, as I have received such a warm welcome from the campus community."

The GBCC is housed in the WIU Multicultural Center, which is also home to the Casa Latina Cultural Center and the Women's Center. The multicultural center is the first building on WIU's campus constructed to green standards.

Simien is already on campus and said he has an amazing team of graduate assistants working with him to implement new ideas for the GBCC.

"My vision for the center includes strengthening academic support, increasing campus collaborations and hosting events that celebrate the richness of African American culture," he said. "We are launching several new programs this year. Our Soul Food series includes workshops that focus on leadership development, financial literacy and individual health and wellness. A new event in February will honor and celebrate African American women titled 'Why I Love Black Women.' The center will host several study events throughout each semester, as well."

A goal Simien has set for the GBCC is to "empower students for success and convey to them they are destined for greatness."

Simien received his bachelor's degree in communication and his master's degree in theology from Valparaiso University in Indiana. He has also previously served as the program coordinator of the Roberts Family Development Center in California and youth development trainer for WestEd, also in California.

For more information on the GBCC, visit wiu.edu/gbcc.


Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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