DELORES HURST, Reveille Radio News Reporter:
Reflection, memories and celebration was in the air as leaders of the African American Cultural Center gathered for a traditional blessing on the AACC grounds. This blessing, called Sherehe Ya Kuanzisha marks the ground breaking for the new AACC. Many were in attendance, including Vice Provost Dr. Katrice Albert, who thanked those who paved the way for the center.
KATRICE ALBERT (Vice Provost): Today we are a symbol to commemorate and celebrate the history, the present and future of the LSU Women’s Center and the African American Cultural Center.
HURST: The AACC was established in 1993 as a place for African American students to gather for meeting, studying, counseling and to learn about their history. According to coordinator Niya Blair, the AACC will double  in size and feature many new services.
The ceremony reflected what the center meant from words by former alumna Nicole Molier. They also blessed the ground through libation – a traditional prayer that was led by Nomzano Iyano.
NOMZANO IYANU: To all our ancestors for the precious gift of your blood, sweat and tears.
GROUP: We praise and honor you.
HURST: The program also featured singing by LSU student Emeka Dibia.
EMEKA DIBIA (singing): I believe in the power, and I’ll never ever doubt you. I believe in the power, I believe.
HURST: The center is expected to open in two years and Niya Blair stated she hopes to see everyone at the cutting of the rope.
I’m Delores Hurst with your Reveille Radio News.