University News

GBCC to Host 50th Anniversary Gala

January 14, 2019

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MACOMB, IL – For the past 50 years, The Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center (GBCC) has played an integral role in Western Illinois University's history, growth and success.

Initially, the center was established in response to a student protest, which voiced the concerns of African American students at the time. Originally, called the "Black House," since 1969, the GBCC has been committed to academic excellence, educational opportunity, personal growth and social responsibility to the Western Illinois community and to the world.

Rededicated in 1970 as the first landmark named after the poet, author and educator, Gwendolyn Brooks, the cultural center has hosted influential leaders such as Ruby Dee, Ossie Davis, Issac Hayes and Nikki Giovanni. Since then, the search continues for new and iconic leaders to engage in critical discussions which center the African diaspora.

The center will celebrate The Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center's rich history, and the culmination of its Black History Celebration theme, "Our Roots Run Deep." At 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 23, the center will host a black-tie gala, with keynote speaker, author Billye Sankofa Waters, at The Forum, in downtown Macomb.

To RSVP or to buy tickets for the gala, visit bit.ly/2sjGu6c.



Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing