By DL White
Tucson — Time has a way of healing even the deepest wounds, whether physical or the kind etched into memory—rekindled by a song, a scent, or a moment that brings the past rushing back.
Roll the clock back to 1990: African American students at the University of Arizona had no central place on campus to call their own. The library, cafeteria, Old Main, or a spot out on the quad were never adequate for students to gather, check in, and support one another.
Compounding the issue were tensions with campus police—none of whom were Black—shared former student Tim Starks. In response, students organized and presented a set of intentionally crafted demands.
Their requests included a full-time dean, a dedicated space to study, reflect, and relax, and a faculty member to teach African American Studies.
The university responded affirmatively. Dr. Jesse Hargrove, an affable and energetic associate dean from Florida who earned his doctorate in Illinois, was hired. Dr. Hargrove hit the ground running. Soon after, the university delivered on its promise of a gathering space: a former house converted into the African American Student Center (AASC). Later, an extension became the Martin Luther King Jr. Nonviolent Center—today known as the MLK Dream Space.
The AASC quickly became the spot on campus—not only for African American students but also for students of all backgrounds seeking quiet refuge and a warm, welcoming place to land between classes.
The AASC team eventually grew to include program manager Robin Lemon (Soape) and Ms. Etta Poe, who joined Dr. Hargrove in supporting students.
Students would drop into the center early and stay late. The AASC staff planned events including the annual Sounding of the Drum; potlucks; the Mr. & Miss AASC King and Queen Pageant; and African Convocations to celebrate academic milestones, especially graduation.
A Return 35 Years Later
On Friday, November 7, the university welcomed back key individuals who played pivotal roles 35 years ago. While some have since transitioned, many who contributed to the historic changes of 1990 returned to reflect and celebrate.
On a cool, still evening—against the backdrop of the MLK Dream Space—current coordinator Adiba Nelson welcomed attendees to a night of remembrance and recognition.
The Barbea Williams Performing Company followed with a dynamic African ensemble, full of sharp, intentional movements representative of the African art form for which Williams is renowned.
After remarks from UofA leadership—including Vice Provost Dr. Jeanne Hatcher, Dr. Tanisha Price Johnson, and Dr. Tonya Strozier—former student activist Tim Starks stepped to the podium to offer a vivid recounting of what life was like as an African American Wildcat in the early 1990s.
Community matriarch Donna Liggins brought greetings on behalf of the Tucson community, noting its unwavering support for students—including hosting gatherings at the Tucson Beau Brummel, an African American social club near campus.
“Wow—35 years, and it seems like yesterday.”
Starks began, “Back then, Black students were having difficulties with being harassed by campus police, and not one Black officer was in the group.
“We were meeting with the VP of Student Affairs, but things were moving slowly. One meeting, an older student, Michael Graham, stood up and said, ‘Enough! I’m tired of meeting just to meet.’
“That moment sparked our mission—our ‘good trouble’ campaign. We agreed to meet at the Administration building that week, lock arms, and block the entrance.
“Well, seven of us showed up, did exactly that, and it worked. The president listened to our 10 demands. Front and center was a place for African American students to meet.
“We also demanded our own Dean of Students and an African American Studies class. The administration agreed. Dr. Hargrove became our dean, and Rev. Elwood McDowell became the instructor for AAS.
“At first, we wondered what someone from New Mexico could teach us, but Rev. McDowell was the real deal. The class was lit—packed every semester.
“He encouraged us to stand for what we believed in. He really inspired us. Several students stepped into leadership—and without them, we might not be here today.”
He offered shout-outs to Rachel Johnson, Basil Makudo, Joan, Michael G., Gilo Morgan, Kenny Lofton, Reggie Johnson, Pops, Brother Bill, and others: “Together, we made a difference that’s still felt today.”
Dr. Hargrove Returns
Dr. Jesse Hargrove, who led the transition in 1990, flew in from Arkansas, where he recently retired after 32 years in Little Rock.
Starting with his customary call-and-response, he said, “When I say African American Student Center, you say enthusiasm!”
After a booming repetition, Dr. H—affectionately known by generations of students—reflected:
“It was an interesting time. The students were eager to be heard—focused, committed to change. We were in place to help facilitate that change.
“Much progress was made. Student leaders like Brother Tim Starks demonstrated that students can get things done when they work cooperatively and stay focused.
“Change in history has never come easily. The 60s brought Civil Rights and Voting Rights Acts; the 70s ushered in the Black Power Movement; the 80s brought a revolutionary age of awareness.
“But it is always action and activity that bring about change. Sit-ins, active student engagement, calculated risks—that’s what led to us being here today and what made change possible 35 years ago.
“Congratulations to the student leaders who refused to go quietly into the night. They marched until victory was won. Never stop, never stop!”
In Memoriam
Many key contributors who supported students during that era have since transitioned: General Julius Parker, Ms. Etta Poe, Al Longmire, Clarence Boykins, Betty Liggins, Doc Davis, and others. Their impact remains deeply felt.
A Taste of the Evening
Guests enjoyed soulful catering, including shrimp and grits, carrot cake and red velvet cake squares, and mac-and-cheese balls.
Danny L. White currently lives in Phoenix, AZ. He is the author and creative lead for two books, the Sensational letter “S”, a children’s book focused on early reading comprehension and word development, and Discovering The Saunk in U, a celebration of youth conceived at the height of the pandemic. He is also an Adjunct faculty member at Maricopa College, and staff reporter for the Arizona Informant. He is an active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc, in the Phoenix, Arizona Area.
Thanks for the documentation of our #35 event… Memories…. Love… 💗 💕 ❤️
Peace, Barbea