The West Virginia University Center for Black Culture (CBC) list six main points as its mission. These include:

v To provide critical support to WVU Students, particularly African American students and students of color with issues concerning recruitment and retention;

v To provide the university community with cultural and social events that are unique to the African World experience;

v To provide a forum for the study, research and examination of African people and societies;

v To provide an educational, social and cultural support system for African and African American Students, faculty, staff, and community members;

v To support the development of the state of West Virginia through education, extension and public service activities and;

v To serve as an intellectual source for the study and research of African and African American culture and life.

The CBC which was established in 1987 makes the pledge to aid WVU minority students to collegiate success.  Key programs are fledged beneath its umbrella, such as Passkey (Personal Academic Support Service), The Black Student Union, The Paul Robeson/Mahalia Jackson Choir and the newly formed Urban Word Poets.

 The Passkey course for example is a freshman orientation class that has been a part of the WVU campus since 1985. The main goal of this program is assisting minority students to successfully acclimate and adjust to college life. The CBC provides a unique outlet of overwhelming support to students.

The Center is also known for various events and lectures they sponsor and hold annually, many of which are open to both students and members of the community. To highlight a few of these significant events would include the Kwanza Celebration Dinner, Belmear Reception, Martin Luther King Jr. Unity breakfast. While also bringing distinguished guests such as Dr. Maulana Karenga the founder of Kwanza, Yolanda King and Tony Brown.

The CBC in its own words states that “…Students are the greatest asset to the Center, and we will do everything possible to help you reach your full potential as individual members of our academic community.”

If you would like to find out more information about the WVU Center for Black Culture and the work the provide in the community you can contact the CBC at 304-293-7029, cbc@mail.wvu.edu

Center for Black Culture

590 Sprunce Street

P.O. Box 6417

Morgantown, WV 26506