Fifty years after the University of Illinois opened an African America cultural program, the group is moving into a new $59 million building, reports the Associated Press. Construction of the 8,000-square-foot, glass and bricking building for the Bruce D. Nesbit African American Cultural Center is nearly complete.
The original center was opened in 1969 as a home for Black students. A “soft opening” is planned for this Spring, while a grand opening event will be held in the Fall to commemorate the center’s 50th anniversary. “It’s almost like being a kid on Christmas who has a parent who says, ‘You can’t go down until daylight,” said the center’s director, Nathan Stephens. “I’m ready to move in and experience and appreciate it.” He said the new location will be more convenient for students.
The first floor includes a lounge, a large multipurpose room and activity spaces. The second floor contains offices, study areas and a computer lab. The new center was funded by donations, university institutional funds and student fees.
