The engine for Black students’ academic success
The Lyllye Reynolds-Parker Black Cultural Center (BCC) embodies the aspirations of generations—inspired by students and supported by donors. This decades-long dream came true in 2019, thanks to grassroots fundraising and a lead gift from Nancy and Dave Petrone, BS ’66 (economics), MBA ’68.
Lyllye Reynolds-Parker is a civil rights activist and alumna who touched countless lives of UO students during her career as an academic advisor. This social, cultural, and academic home for Black students and the community is a welcoming and supportive space in the northeast area of campus.
It’s a beautiful and well-designed facility, but the BCC is more than a building. It’s an active hub that brings people together with purpose and intention.
The BCC helps students find the resources to navigate college life and succeed—at the UO and after graduation. This vital center supports and nurtures students, offering ways to connect, crucial advising, and mentorship opportunities. By investing in the success of Black students, we enhance the cultural and social development of the entire UO community.
The building is completed, but our important work continues. We’re counting on donor support for two important initiatives that will help us continue to realize the aspirations of everyone who helped imagine and create the center.
“I'm so proud that the Lyllye Reynolds-Parker Black Cultural Center is now part of our UO campus. Please join me in making a gift to support the center's important ongoing mission.”
-RoseMarie Beatty, BA '92 (public relations)
Lead donor for the BCC Scholarship Fund
Gift Opportunities
Lyllye Reynolds-Parker Black Cultural Center Scholarship Fund
Student success is at the core of UO’s academic mission. Too often, successful students are forced to delay (or even end) their college plans because of unexpected financial challenges. Your gift helps us remove obstacles students may face and provide a supportive environment in which they can focus on their academic goals while making the most of their student experience.
Recipients will be chosen by a scholarship committee convened by the coordinator of the BCC, based on financial need, services to the UO Black community, and/or the pursuit of a minor in Black Studies or Ethnic Studies. Individual awards will range between $750 and $5,000.
It’s a modest amount, considering all the costs of attending a university. However, this level of support can often make all the difference to a student facing short-term barriers to long term success.
Lyllye Reynolds-Parker Black Cultural Center Innovation Fund
Support a leadership and cultural learning opportunity for 10-12 students, led by a UO faculty or staff member. The group will travel to one or more cities to learn about and experience Black history and culture, potentially engaging in a civic service project. Students will combine academic coursework with practical experience to learn critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills. They will reflect on what they learn, as well as their experiences, to explore their values, issues related to bias, and Black history. By collaborating in a challenging, intentional setting, participants will learn the importance of teamwork, balance, and relationships.
Experiential learning opportunities offer challenges that transform lives. Many alumni tell us these types of programs teach lessons that shape who they become and help them build successful careers.