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 from the Otter Cross Cultural Center, Associated Students of CSUMB, and the Helen Rucker Center for Black Excellence, the aim of this event is to foster a sense of belonging and to 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 participate in critical and contemporary discussions that impact society. All proceeds raised at the event will benefit the activities of the Helen Rucker Center for Black Excellence.
2025 All Black Gala
Date: Sunday, February 23rd
Time: 4:00-6:00 pm
Location: Otter Student Union Ballroom
The All Black Gala is a formal event that celebrates Black history 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, 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. The All Black Gala has attracted students from local high schools and community colleges, as well as community members who have driven from Oakland in order to attend.
All Black Gala offers guests a keynote, catered reception and meet and greet with the speaker(s) along with an opportunity to host a VIP session that is also catered and provides more one-on-one time with the keynote(s). Past speakers have included Dr. Angela Davis, Shaun King, Michael Brown Sr. and Dr. David Ragland.
Register for All Black Gala 2025
2023 All Black Gala Photo Album 2023 All Black Gala Photo Booth Photo Album
Past Speakers:
- 2017: Dr. Angela Davis
- 2018: Shaun King
- 2019: Mike Brown Sr. & Dr. David Ragland
- 2020: Kevin Willmott
- 2021: Dr. Brittney Cooper
- 2022: Dr. Brian Corpening with special performance by Daniel Summerhill
- 2023: Dr. Calvin Mackie
- 2024: George “Conscious” Lee Jr