It was a reunion in Tacoma as Evergreen State College’s Tacoma Campus hosted their homecoming event last weekend. The school welcomed back campus founder Maxine Mimms, former head Dr. Joye Hardiman, and current dean Dr. Marcia Tate Arunga. Along with the three Black women who have led the school since 1987, alumni and current students were present to connect and celebrate. Speakers included Charlotte Hill O’Neil (Mama C) and Anthony Norman Sr.

“What’s important about Evergreen Tacoma is that we always honor our ancestors,” Alumni and Board Member Onya said.

Mama C came in from Tanzania as part of her UAACC Community Healing Tour. A veteran Black panther, she spoke about the importance of service and unity.

“This is a part of our community service that we learn and practice as members of the Black Panther Party,” Mama C said.

Arunga relished the opportunity to honor Mimms, speaking highly of her contributions and the trail she blazed.

“She was very intentional about making sure the community was always invited and always had a home here,” Arunga said. 

That community focus paid off, with the campus now serving students from all backgrounds. Onya said that the push from factually at the school has led to success.

“They encouraged me to become a Washington State Legislative Intern. They said ‘Girl, you can do whatever you want. Look who founded our school’,” Onya said. 

You can see more above, and visit https://www.evergreen.edu/about/tacoma-campus to learn more.