![Newspaper clipping from February 25, 1970 in the Daily Barometer showing an article written by Bob Allen, past Barometer Editor. This article was written to spotlight both the student body’s lack of participation with student government at the time in conjunction with their class representatives response. [It’s important to note ASOSU was not structured identically to today’s standards, likely having a president on behalf of each class work together as one entity as opposed to one president representing all classes.]](https://dailybaro.orangemedianetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Screenshot-2025-03-12-1.00.42-PM-e1741811160853.png)
Crowded with past students, current students, and a cluster of Oregon State University staff, the Lonnie B. Harris Black Cultural Center’s 50th anniversary reception was a celebration meaningful for all.
From wall to wall there were things to appreciate and learn from on this special day. Salem Demssie – a BCC Community Relations Representative – moved around the room pointing out murals, historical posters of black leaders, and a slideshow showing pictures of the last 50 years in the BCC.
Taking on the tone of a reunion type of celebration – the opportunity to talk, share a banquet-style feast, and take photos with a professional booth setup – seemingly brought a large chunk of the crowd to the BCC Gathering Hall.
On the other side of the building there was a group of students laughing and enjoying a show together – which Demssie described as a typical atmosphere at the BCC.
Jason Williams, another Community Relations Representative at the BCC looked at the large turnout and said that it’s these kinds of events that help the center, and greater OSU community grow.
Williams highlighted this as he said, “collaboration strengthens our communities – the best way to grow is through outreach.”
As the OSU community came together to celebrate the 50 year mark of the BCC, that kind of outreach Williams spoke of was actively happening.
Demssie – who shared a tour around the BCC pridefully – said that she “looks forward to more events and having those hours for students available to connect,” within the coming year.
Although most of these opportunities are available year round for the students who frequent the center like Demssie and Williams – one thing that both student leaders found exciting was the opportunity to connect with alumni at this event.
“Events like this let us learn from the history and the alumni that are here,” Williams said as he touched on how these events can be important networking and educational tools for students.
This appreciation goes both ways in Williams’ words as he pointed out that the alumni “get to see the changes and growth in the center.”
Walking out of this eventful celebration, each person took a walk down memory lane – connecting with photos of the old center, Lonnie B. Harris, and students who made the center what it is today.
The event served as a testament to the BCC’s longstanding mission to serve as a hub for cultural engagement, education, and community connection at Oregon State University.
