The African American and African Studies Community Extension Center has been a longstanding pillar of support for Columbus’ Black community since its founding in 1972.  The center aims to “provide academic and community education opportunities for its Near Eastside neighbors and the greater Central Ohio community,” according to its website. Just last year, the center — located at 905 Mt Vernon Ave. — reopened to include a new library, meeting hall, classrooms and updated technology in order to better serve its community. The renovations were made possible by a $1 million state appropriation from Ohio State Sen. Hearcel Craig (D-Columbus), according to the College of Arts and Sciences’ website. Judson Jeffries, a professor in the Department of African American and African studies and former director of the center from 2006-14, said the renovations will allow for improved outreach within the Columbus community.