Wednesday, August 17, 2005

WILMINGTON, N.C. – The Upperman African-American Cultural Center (UAACC) at the University of North Carolina Wilmington welcomed students to the new academic year with an open house on Aug. 17, the first day of classes at UNCW.

The first, “Celebrating Culture,” kicked off with drumming and dancing by Shea-Ra-Nichi of the African and Cultural Dance Ensemble. Ra-Nichi, the Upperman artist for summer and fall 2005, performed a traditional African welcome dance for students in the University Union living room. Upperman artists are selected to combine visual and performing arts with culture. Musician Grenaldo Frazier will be the spring 2006 featured artist.

In addition to dancing and drumming, the Native American Student Association (NASO), The International Student Organization, Our Latin American Students, Parents Advisory Council and The African American Heritage Foundation of Wilmington were featured at tables.

The UAACC, located in University Union 208, was established in 1995 and is directed by Dr. Deborah Brunson. The UAACC provides all UNCW students, faculty and staff and its surrounding community the opportunity to explore the rich heritage, arts, literature and history related to African-American culture. Brunson states, “The emphasis of this office is community. We seek to build a community by showcasing culture in our everyday lives.”

Assistant director A. Rashid Shabazz says, “We strive to make the center an integral part of this campus.” He describes it as a place “to learn, relax and enjoy.”

Yvonne Smith serves as the administrative secretary of the UAACC. UNCW senior Madhvi Patel has worked in the office for the past year and a half. She is majoring in finance and French.

The University of North Carolina Wilmington welcomed 1,953 first-year students for the 2005-2006 academic year. The 2005 freshmen class averaged 1134 on the SAT with a 3.64 average GPA and includes approximately 200 minority students and 100 international students. Total enrollment for the university is at 11,426.

For more information on the UAACC, please call 910/962.3832.

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