All Black Gala

The All Black Gala is a formal event that celebrates Black hxstory and the immense diversity of Black culture, brilliance, and lived experiences. Created through a partnership of the Otter Cross Cultural Center and Associated Students of CSUMB, and now the Center for Black Student Success, the aim of this event is to foster belongingness and cultivate community amongst various campus populations in order to address campus retention, progression, and graduation. By bringing together students, staff, faculty, alumni, and community members, this event offers opportunities to build networks, learn from one another, and partake in critical and contemporary discussions that impact society.

2022 All Black Gala: Helen Rucker Center for Black Excellence Reception

April 24, 2022, 4:00pm — 6:00pm

OSU Ballroom
5118 Inter-Garrison Road., Seaside, CA 93955

Make a donation

Join us as we celebrate the honorees that were commemorated at the February 2022 All Black Gala. Come together to enjoy an afternoon of light hors d'oeuvres, socialize, and participate in a silent art auction (all contributions will go to the Helen Rucker Center for Black Excellence). If you are unable to attend, but still wish to contribute, please consider making a donation using the link above.

Parking permits are required. RSVP required. Semi-formal attire atmosphere.

2022 All Black Gala

February 26, 2022, 7:00pm — 8:30pm

Watch the 2022 All Black Gala

The event is being held to celebrate Black excellence in Monterey County. The theme is Re-Connecting to Monterey County’s Historic Black Community: Honoring Black Excellence Past, Present, and Future. The event will include a special performance by Daniel Summerhill.

Come learn about our local hxstory through a celebration of Black Excellence as exemplified by the accomplishments of Black students, staff, and community members. Black Elders, the Pillars of the Black Community, with decades of service that go well beyond the Black Community will come together to share their pearls of wisdom on how to navigate a world that wasn't meant for BIPOC members while continuing to fight for justice and taking care of ourselves. Join us virtually as we honor select members of the Black communities of CSUMB and Monterey County for their dedication and work to make Monterey Bay a better and more equitable place for all!

This year our honorees are:

Students	Alumni	Staff	Community
Zah-Rah LaTour	Antoinette Anderson	Jessica Newman	Edward Armstrong
Marcus Garrett	Tyller Williamson	Lynne White-Dixon	Helen Rucker

Past Speakers:

2017: Dr. Angela Davis
2018: Shaun King
2019: Mike Brown Sr. & Dr. David Ragland
2020: Kevin Willmott
2021: Dr. Brittney Cooper