About the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center

During the spring of 1969, a task force of Western Illinois University students sought to establish a cultural center that would provide an ongoing academic and social experience for African American students. The University and the Board of Governors approved the recommendations of the task force and Burns Residence Hall on West Adams Street was chosen as the site for the new Black Cultural Center.

On March 21, 1970, the Center was renamed and dedicated in honor of the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet laureate of Illinois, Ms. Gwendolyn Brooks, in recognition of her support for the establishment of the facility.

Late in June, 2002 the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center moved from its former location at 1025 W. Adams Street to a newly remodeled facility in the University Services Building (former Hy-Vee Store).

The Gwendolyn Brooks Memorial Park will be used to host various GBCC programs throughout the year.

Objectives of the Center

The objective of the Center is to promote the rich cultural experience of African Americans. To fulfill this objective, the various components of the Center serve to:

Develop and expand innovative and meaningful life experiences for all students at Western Illinois University in a centrally located facility.
Generate through the University community a quantity of valuable information about the African American experience through the performing arts, classes, lectures, seminars, and other appropriate media.
Be a learning center to help develop African American leaders who can later apply their skills in the community of their choice.
Establish and maintain a good rapport with African American alumni.
Establish and maintain a continuing dialogue with department chairs, faculty, staff, and administrators concerning policies, procedures, programs, and courses which may best serve the cultural needs of African American students.
Assist in the annual orientation of new African American students.
Provide ongoing support for all Western Illinois University student organizations, particularly African American student organizations.

Multicultural Center

A groundbreaking ceremony was held September 28, 2007 on the 14,000 gross square foot structure. Construction began October 22nd, requiring the closing of Murray Street between the Beu Health Center and the North end of Sherman Drive. The 12-14 month construction period is projected to be completed in November, 2008, with a Grand Opening of the new Multicultural Center during Spring, 2009.

The new Multicultural Center will be centrally located across the street from the University Union and house the Gwendolyn Brooks Cultural Center, Casa Latina, Women’s Center and International Friendship Club.