Lonnie B. Harris Black Cultural Center

The Lonnie B. Harris Black Cultural Center, located at Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, serves as a vital hub for cultural engagement and support for Black students. Established in 1975, the center emerged from the activism of the Black Student Union, which formed in response to racial discrimination on campus. Named after its first director, Lonnie B. Harris, the center aims to enhance the recruitment and retention of Black students. Visitors can explore its rich history, including significant events such as a cross burning in 1976 that highlighted ongoing racial tensions. The center's architecture reflects its evolving role, having been temporarily relocated during renovations in 2013. It stands as a testament to the resilience and community spirit of Black students at OSU.