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Russell House

STOP #4

Like Greene Street, Russell House also has strong ties within the black community at UofSC. In 2017, The Intersection was created to serve as a multicultural lounge for students. Russell House hosted many of the multicultural organizations and served as a social gathering spot for black students. The Association of African American Students was established in 1968 and was known as one of the leading organizations on campus. This organization along with the NAACP served to voice students needs and enhance the experience of black students on campus. Although the NAACP was a prominent organization, the chapter ceased in 2015. AAAS continues to lead African American students and hosts many of their events in Russell House. Notable traditions include the annual Fashion Show, the AAAS Cookout, and the Talented Tenth Awards. Many National Pan-Hellenic Organizations would also host events in Russell House. Step Shows, Stroll-Offs, and Probates were the most popular of the events. Community is a big factor in any event planned by the black community. It is common for alumni and community members to participate with the students at these events. In 2012, the university dedicated a wall in Russell House to African American contributions. The African American Presence Wall is located outside of the Russell House ballrooms. This wall includes 8 panels filled with African American history. A few Gamecock heroes mentioned include Henrie Monteith Treadwell, Robert Anderson, James Solomon, Harry Walker, George Rogers, Steve Benjamin, and Bakari Sellers. The first three individuals were the first African American students to desegregate the university. Harry Walker was the first black student to become the Student Body President. George Rogers played football at UofSC and was a running back in the NFL. Steve Benjamin was a Student Body President and is now the Mayor of Columbia. Bakari Sellers was a South Carolina State Representative. As the years progress, the university has cultivated a lot of talented black students to continue to do amazing things. For example, Jotaka Eaddy was the first African American woman to become the Student Body President and is now nicknamed by Forbes Magazine, "Silicon Valley's Olivia Pope." There are not enough walls to recognize the black excellence of UofSC.

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