#GivingTuesday 2021

The African American Cultural & Resource Center (AACRC) at the University of Cincinnati is celebrating its 30th anniversary. The vision of the AACRC came about when a group of Black students advocated for a space of their own, a gathering place where they would be able to express themselves culturally. After receiving support from crucial UC administrators, faculty and staff, and Board of Trustee members, the building opened on September 21, 1991.

For three decades, the Center has become a “home away from home” for Black students who study at UC from across the globe. It has been and continues to be a place of identity, scholarship, cultural exploration, and service to the university and community. The AACRC staff also executes many programs benchmarked by other institutions, including Kuamka (a leadership pageant), Akwaaba (Black Student Welcome), the Spring Break Tour, the AACRC Choir, and Tyehimba, one of the countries oldest Afrocentric graduation celebrations. Each year, the AACRC is home to more than 150 additional events hosted by our campus partners, such as the LGBTQ Center, Women’s Center, and Ethnic Programs and Services.

For its 30 year existence, the AACRC has provided opportunities to learn about African, Caribbean, and Black American culture through its various signature programs and events. The AACRC has helped strengthen the relationship between the university and the surrounding community by including community organizations in signature programming and events. The AACRC has also aided in recruiting high school students by providing campus tours and student panels. AACRC student leaders have helped strengthen and diversify campus leadership roles by being RAs, SOLs, Peer Leaders, Student Government members, PACE leaders, College Ambassadors, and Study Abroad students. The AACRC has been able to develop students holistically so they not only graduate but become global citizens. Students connected to the AACRC have used what was instilled in them at the Center and are now all around the world leading in their jobs and initiatives and leaving legacies everywhere they go! Monies raised during this time will strengthen current programs and create new opportunities for student development.

One lucky donor* to the AACRC will win an autographed basketball from Men's Basketball head coach, Wes Miller. 

UC and UC Health employees can give via payroll deduction today!

*Participation in the #GivingTuesday campaign is not necessary to be entered into the drawing. You may e-mail Justin.Gibson@foundation.uc.edu to request an entry.