Located at the heart of campus, the Cesar Chavez Student Center has served as a vital hub of student activity since it opened in September 1975. Besides housing the SFSU Bookstore, more than 20 student organization offices, food and beverage vendors, and other facilities, the Student Center is a symbol of student power and vision.

From Sept. 12 through Oct. 7, the Cesar Chavez Student Center will hold a series of events to celebrate its 30th anniversary and honor the progressive student voice and its contribution to the campus.

The anniversary celebration kicks off at noon Monday on Malcolm X Plaza with Native American drumming, a blessing and Aztec dancers. President Robert A. Corrigan, Associated Students President Chris Jackson, and former Student Center Governing Board members will speak at the opening event. The campus community and general public is invited to join in the festivities, which include free cake and live music.

Throughout the month, student organizations –- including La Raza, KSFS Radio, Student Athletic Advisory Committee and Students for Entertainment -- will hold lunch-time performances on Malcolm X Plaza. Contact Katherine Day at (415) 405-3408 for details.

Events will also be held inside the center, including a free film festival in Jack Adams Hall that will showcase films by students and alumni at 6 p.m. Sept. 26-28.

The Richard Oakes Multicultural Center, located on the Terrace Level, will host a seven-week series on the Third World Liberation Front and the student strikes on campus in 1968. The series will feature speakers, films and photos that will explore the longest student strike in American history and its relevance to today's campus community.

For closing night of the celebration, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7, the Student Center will hold an open-house celebration with food, live music and performances. The Art Gallery, Rack-N-Cue and The Depot will remain open all evening and student organizations will be on hand. Fire Pixies -- a fire and light show -- and lion dancers will perform on Malcolm X Plaza.

Originally known as the Student Union, the Cesar Chavez Student Center was constructed and is maintained entirely by the Student Center Fee and the revenue that vendors provide. Designed by architect Paffard Keatinge Clay, the center is dedicated to promoting and enriching the educational, social and cultural life of the campus. Almost 80 percent of the Student Center staff are students.

For details, visit the Cesar Chavez Student Center Web site.

-- Student Writer Audrey Tang with Ellen Griffin