“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
– African proverb
Mission
The mission of the African American Resource & Cultural Center (AARCC) is to provide support for students in the African, Black, and Caribbean (ABC) communities at the University of California, Santa Cruz. We aim to foster an environment and community that supports all folks from the African Diaspora and encourages the pursuit of a deeper understanding of identity and culture as it relates to one’s educational journey.
Our programs
The African American Resource & Cultural Center (AARCC) at UC Santa Cruz offers a dynamic range of programs designed to support, empower, and celebrate students and uplift the cultures, practices, and histories of the African, Black, and Caribbean (ABC) diaspora.
From academic initiatives like the African American Mentorship Program (AAMP) to cultural events such as the Welcome Black BBQ and the Black Love Gala, we foster a vibrant community that promotes academic success, cultural pride, and personal growth.
Mentorship
AARCC creates peer-to-peer support systems through our mentoring programs, fostering a sense of community, belonging, and academic confidence among participants.
Mentors also gain valuable leadership and professional development experience. This is more than mentorship—it’s a commitment to lifting each other up and building a supportive community at UCSC.
The Black Shop
The Black Shop is a culturally affirming basic needs pantry housed within the AARCC, open to all students.
Designed with the African, Black, and Caribbean (ABC) community in mind, The Black Shop offers a curated selection of personal care products that reflect the unique needs and traditions of the African Diaspora. Stocked with essentials such as textured hair care products, skin care items, protective styling tools, and more, The Black Shop ensures that students have access to culturally relevant resources that support their well-being and sense of belonging.
Upcoming events
Honoring Our Relatives: Amah Mutsun Botanical Illustrations
Stay connected
UCSC Resource Centers: Working together to support all students
The African American Resource and Cultural Center is part of a network of campus resource centers that work together to support all students. In collaboration with centers like AIRC, El Centro, AA/PIRC, Cantú Queer Center, and Women’s Center, we offer shared programs, resources, and spaces that celebrate identity, build community, and promote belonging. In addition to exploring our offerings, we encourage you to check out the many events, services, and opportunities provided by our partner centers across campus. UCSC resource centers are open to all students, and everyone is welcome.
African American Resource and Cultural Center
Connect with the African American Resource and Cultural Center for events, community, cultural support, and resources.
American Indian Resource Center
The AIRC supports American Indian students with programs, events, and tools for success, while connecting them with Native communities and UC Santa Cruz.
Asian American/Pacific Islander Resource Center
Explore support, community, and events focused on SWANA (Southwest Asian and North African) and AAPI (Asian American and Pacific Islander) cultures.
El Centro: Chicanx Latinx Resource Center
The Chicanx Latinx Resource Center serves as a hub of organized activities and resources that support Latiné student transition, retention, graduation, and academic advancement.
Lionel Cantú Queer Center
Get support and connect with the LGBTQIA+ community. Find resources, community and join events for queer, trans, and non-binary individuals.
Women’s Center
The Women’s Center provides safe spaces, empowering events, basic needs, and other resources, striving to affirm the dignity and diversity of all women.
