A Brief History of the BCC
The Conney M. Kimbo Black Cultural Center (BCC) is a significant part of Grinnell's rich and complex history. During the tumultuous climate of the late 1960s and early 1970s, a wide range of social movements were taking place across the nation. In 1967, a new student organization was born and they called themselves the Concerned Black Students (CBS). CBS immediately began their work to change the campus landscape. In fact, CBS and their allies mobilized people and took actions to create awareness about the needs and concerns of black students on campus. Out of these actions, a proposal was submitted to the Board of Trustees and it listed several recommendations to improve the quality of life for black students. CBS recommended the creation of a Black Student Center, and they envisioned it to be a place to educate and preserve black culture and history for the Grinnell community. In September 1969, the result of these actions turned into the allocation of a new space on campus, named the Black Cultural Center (BCC). In 1970, the BCC opened its doors as a place that recognizes, honors and celebrates black history, culture and the diaspora of people who identify with African heritage. The BCC was re-dedicated and renamed the Conney M. Kimbo Black Cultural Center in honor of Mr. Kimbo in 1989 who passed away in that same year. Mr. Kimbo had been the former Dean of Student Affairs at the College from 1970-1973. The connections between CBS and the BCC remained strong and in the summer of 1999, CBS spokesperson, Sherman P. Willis '09 led the movement to renovate the building. Under the auspices of the Office of the President, the Office of Multicultural Affairs and Facilities Management significant changes were made. The BCC continues to be a hub of activities for social, cultural, and academic programs.
We invite and welcome everyone to visit this multicultural space!
2011-2012 BCC Staff
Chloe Griffen, House Monitor X3311 CBS Kotoko Spokesperson, NAACP cabinet member, MLC board, Peer Mentor griffenc@grinnell.edu
Isaiah Iboko, House Monitor x3313 POSSE Scholar, Mellon Mayes, NASPA Undergraduate Fellow, Peer Mentor ibokoisa@grinnell.edu
Marlene Jacks - Intercultural Engagement & Leadership, Kimbo Black Cultural Center Advisor
ABCC State Coordinator - Board Member
