The Sacramento State Multi-Cultural Center held its grand reopening event this evening for students and faculty to view the recent upgrades and changes to the building.

The atmosphere was transformed through student photographs, new furniture and a paint job. Students were asked to submit photos to decorate the walls of the center. The images were supposed to portray a response to the question, “How do you define home?”

Natchee Blu Barnd, lecturer of ethnic studies, said the images help reinforce one of the goals of the center; creating a space where students can feel comfortable.

“The images portray a sense of home, something everyone can understand,” Barnd said.

“Two years ago, student demonstrations led to discussions about making changes to the center,” said center director Charlene Martinez. “The wheels started turning and pivotal changes happened quickly after I was hired. I can’t take credit for the foundation work.”

David Gutierrez, a senior journalism student and facilities intern for the center, said students used the center like the library in the past.

“Now, it is coming to life,” Gutierrez said. “There is a sense of community, student groups are working together. It is a redirecting of the center we are celebrating.”

“We want people to not be afraid of diversity,” Martinez said. “Getting people to experience the center is the first step. The center provides diversity and a sense of inclusion at Sac State.”

LaTavia Gossett, a senior criminal justice major agreed that the center is a welcoming place for students.

“The center has a very relaxing atmosphere,” Gossett said. “It’s a good place to study and to find out about the diverse activities happening on campus.”

Sarah Couch, representative for undeclared students for Associated Students Inc., said this was the first time she had been to the center.

“The environment is very open-minded,” Couch said. “There is a vitality that is excellent here. It is a great opportunity to meet and talk to people.”

The environment and atmosphere of the center will continue to grow. A mural project is underway, a mixture of input and ideas generated by students. Students who wish to contribute can get more information at the center located in the Library Breezeway.

One of the biggest challenges has been the lack of staffing at the center. Right now, Martinez is the only full-time employee, with the remainder of the work done by paid interns and student volunteers.

But despite aesthetic facelifts, the center did not receive new computers and still uses a 15-year-old fax machine. The campus did supply refurbished computer units. The website is not yet redesigned, but Martinez said they are working on it.

Derek Fleming can be reached at [email protected]