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Helen Rucker Center

A regional hub empowering African Diaspora students, faculty, and community through engagement, scholarship, and belonging.

Group of cheering students at the Helen Rucker Center.
Culture Identity Centers

The Helen Rucker Center for Black Excellence (HRCBE) at Cal State Monterey Bay serves as a regional hub and cultural home for students, faculty, staff, and community members of the African Diaspora—and for anyone seeking to engage, learn, and connect.

Founded in 2020 as the Center for Black Student Success, the center was envisioned by Dr. Vanessa Lopez-Little and supported by Dr. Brian Corpening. In 2022, it was renamed to honor Mrs. Helen Rucker, a lifelong educator, activist, and civil rights leader who has dedicated her life to empowering Black communities on the Monterey Peninsula.

The HRCBE continues Mrs. Rucker’s legacy through programs, resources, and events that affirm identity, build community, and celebrate Black excellence.

The center’s mission is to engage and empower the CSUMB community through academic, professional, and cultural programming centered in the wisdom and histories of the African Diaspora.

Our Commitment to Student Success

Get Involved
A group of students around a white board at the Helen Rucker Center

Mission & Vision

The center fosters transformative experiences that equip students to become the next generation of leaders and changemakers uplifting communities of the African Diaspora.

Helen Rucker

Honoring Our Legacy

The center honors Mrs. Helen Rucker—educator, civil rights leader, and community advocate—whose decades of service and activism inspire our mission.

Our Programs & Services

Explore signature events, mentorship, and student support services offered by the Helen Rucker Center.

Signature Events

Welcome Back Soul Food BBQ

All Black Gala

Black Queens Week

Black History Month Programs

Black/African Heritage Affinity Ceremony

The Mandla Mentor Program helps first-year students build strength and belonging through faculty and staff mentorship.

The African Heritage Research Collaborative offers undergraduate research opportunities and scholarships centered in the African Diaspora experience.

Drop-in tutoring, CalFresh application support, and mental health sessions (“Let’s Talk”) are offered weekly in collaboration with campus partners. Students may also apply for academic and professional funding support through HRCBE.

A group of students sitting at a table at the Helen Rucker Center.

Get in Touch

Visit us in Redwood Hall or reach out to learn more about our programs, events, and student support services.

Helen Rucker Center

A welcoming space empowering African Diaspora students, faculty, and community through connection, education, and cultural excellence.

Contact

Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.