The Afro-American Cultural Center will celebrate 41 years of helping students this weekend.

The organization will hold a Rededication and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at 5 p.m. on Friday at the African American Cultural Center, 303 Melrose Ave.

The goal of the event is to “celebrate history, renew relationships, and empower the next generation of African American students on campus,” according to a UI press release.

UI President Sally Mason will speak at the ceremony. Alumni representing each decade since the center’s start will also share reflections on the Afro House.

The Afro-American Cultural Center will hold additional events throughout the weekend.

All UI students are invited to participate in the ribbon cutting and other events.

— by Samantha Honken