Cal State San Bernardino Santos Manuel Student Union Cross Cultural Center will open the Pan-African Student Success Center today, Monday, Oct. 17.
“This is a milestone not only for our university but for the surrounding communities,” said committee member and SMSU facilities coordinator. “This center will give our students the opportunity to engage with faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners.”
The grand opening of the PAC will be held in the SMSU Event Center, room 106, at 5 p.m. The event is open to the public; complimentary parking will be available in parking Lot D.
The event will begin with a blessing and the singing of Black National Anthem. CSUSB President Tomas Morales and Brian Haynes, vice president of Student Affairs, will provide welcome remarks. Keynote speakers will consist of the co-founders of Black Scholars Matter: Cassandra Butcher, Alex Avila and Damarea Parker. A ribbon cutting and reception will follow in the PAC, room 102c.
“I just want to thank all the people who were a part of the process in making this happen and making it a reality,” said Parker.
The PAC supports a sense of self-worth through ownership of academic excellence, career development, cultural competency, and civic encouragement for people of the African Diaspora, Parker said. Any person or allies that identify under or support the African Diaspora are welcome.
“The PAC is a place where students can come to learn about their own culture or other cultures as well,” said Parker who added that the center is not just for African American students but for all individuals who identify in some way with Africa through its culture, history or society.
Funded by the SMSU, the center will offer students peer-to-peer advising and tutoring, internship resources, and scholarships.
The center will operate under the leadership of Tamara Holder, Cross Cultural Center coordinator. Plans to hiring a designated coordinator and student assistants are in in the works.
The SMSU is the focal point of the campus, creating a home for learning and leisure, as well as contributing to retention of students. Students’ overall university and life experience is enhanced through the celebration of culture and diversity. Student success is enhanced through meaningful and entertaining programs, enriching leadership and employment opportunities, quality services, and exceptional facilities.
For more information regarding the event or the Pan-African Student Success Center, contact Damarea Parker at (909) 537-3519 or by email at damarea.parker@csusb.edu.