We invite you to view this exhibit that documents the Citizens University Committee, an organization that played a key role in the establishment of UC Riverside, on the first floor of the Rivera Library during the library's operating hours from May 16, 2023 - June 14, 2023.  

History of the CUC

The Citizen’s University Committee (CUC) was formed by a group of over 100 concerned citizens in 1948 with the goal to aid in the development of a university in Riverside. The formation of the committee was formally announced on March 8, 1948 and the first public meeting was held on March 13, 1948 with Judge O.K. Morton as chair.

The CUC played a key role in the establishment of the university in Riverside. In 1949, they successfully lobbied for a $4 million appropriation from the California State Legislature for the development of the university. Not only was the CUC instrumental in funding the university, they also advocated for the location of the campus to be adjacent to the grounds of the Citrus Experiment Station and assisted with the purchase of additional land to that end. The CUC was heavily involved in zoning and road development before construction began on campus. They safeguarded against the unplanned commercial development of the campus area prior to its construction. The committee also advocated for 8th Street to be renamed University Avenue.

After campus was constructed, the CUC participated in raising funds for projects that would enhance the student experience on campus. CUC meetings were often held over breakfast. In addition, they held an annual banquet with guest speakers such as the chancellor and former regents of the university. In 1962, the CUC published a brochure called Opportunities for Sharing, in which they solicited private contributions for a number of potential projects, including a Student Center, the Bell Tower, an international relations center, a family recreation area and agricultural research grants. A number of these projects subsequently came to fruition including an annual scholarship fund, the International Lounge in University Commons and the Bell Tower.