The Frieson Black Cultural Center (FBCC) is a transformational space on campus that has impacted the lives of students at UT for well over 20 years. Today, the FBCC houses critical programs, support, and resources, offering students a sense of community.

When the Black Cultural Center was first established in 1975, it focused on support and services for Black and African American students at UT. Originally located in a former residence on the campus, the center provided a place for students to gather while educating the community about the Black experience at the university.

In 2002, the campus constructed a new Black Cultural Center to replace the former residence, and the new center was the first building on campus to be built specifically for Black and African American students. In 2015, the center was renamed the Frieson Black Cultural Center after alumni Ron and Don Frieson, following a historic $1 million gift that funded additional academic support, diversity workshops, peer mentoring, and leadership development opportunities for students.

2022 marked the FBCC’s 20th anniversary at the 1800 Melrose location, and the building has served as a home away from home for thousands of students. Housing the Office of Multicultural Student Life, the FBCC supports students from all religions, cultures, languages, races, and backgrounds.

“The FBCC is a place where you can be proud of who you are and celebrate who you are,” shared Anthony Prewitt, director of Multicultural Student Life.

The programs and services found in the FBCC are evolving and growing, celebrating the stories of the students that walk through their doors. At the FBCC, the sense of family, friendship, and connectedness is cultivated and amplified.