Welcome to Sather Gate, one of UC Berkeley’s most iconic landmarks. This gate was donated by Jane K. Sather in memory of her husband, Peder Sather. Peder Sather was a prominent banker and philanthropist in the late 19th century, heavily involved in funding educational institutions and public works. Jane Sather contributed significantly to the university, funding not only the gate but also the Sather Tower and the Sather Professorships. She aimed to create a lasting legacy that would benefit generations of students.

Did you know that Sather Gate made an appearance in the Pixar movie ‘Monster’s University’? The director, Dan Scanlon, chose Sather Gate for its iconic and recognizable structure. He wanted to capture the essence of a traditional university, and Sather Gate’s classic design perfectly fit the bill. In the movie, the gate is featured during a scene where the characters Mike and Sulley first enter the university, capturing their excitement and awe. The gate’s prominence and historical significance made it an ideal choice to represent the entrance of the fictional university in the movie.

Sather Gate has also been a central point for many significant protests and movements. One of the most notable was during the Free Speech Movement in the 1960s. Students gathered here to protest against the university’s restrictions on political activities and free speech. The specific restriction involved a ban on on-campus political activities, including speeches and literature distribution. The movement was pivotal in challenging these restrictions, particularly focusing on civil rights issues and opposition to the Vietnam War. The students demanded the right to organize and speak out on political issues, including civil rights, anti-war activism, and social justice. This movement was instrumental in shaping the university’s policies and cementing Berkeley’s reputation as a hub for activism and social change.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Student Union is a central hub for student life at UC Berkeley. Named in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., it serves as a space for student activities, meetings, and events. The union is a testament to Dr. King’s legacy and his impact on civil rights and social justice, providing students with a space to engage in dialogue, activism, and community building. Did you know? Dr. King actually visited UC Berkeley in 1967 and spoke at Sproul Plaza, inspiring thousands of students.

The Student Multicultural Center within the MLK Student Union is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion on campus. It offers resources and support for students from diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of community and belonging. The center hosts cultural events, workshops, and discussions aimed at celebrating and understanding different cultures and perspectives. One memorable event is the annual International Food Festival, where students showcase and share cuisine from their home countries. Another quirky event includes the “Cultural Dance-Off,” where students compete in traditional dances, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere.

The MLK Student Union includes the Amazon Student Center, providing students with a convenient place to pick up packages and access Amazon services. This modern addition reflects the evolving needs of students and the integration of technology into campus life. The center is designed to make student life more efficient and connected. Interestingly, the center also has a “stress relief corner” where students can relax with bean bags and complimentary snacks while waiting for their packages. There was even a humorous incident where a group of students used the center’s services to receive an enormous teddy bear, which became an overnight campus celebrity.

Upper Sproul Plaza is the heart of student life and activities at UC Berkeley. It was a key location during the Free Speech Movement of the 1960s and continues to be a central spot for student gatherings, protests, and events. The plaza is always bustling with energy, reflecting the dynamic and vibrant spirit of the campus. Did you know? The steps of Sproul Hall, which face the plaza, are often referred to as “Mario Savio Steps,” named after the prominent leader of the Free Speech Movement.

In the 1960s, Sproul Plaza became the epicenter of the Free Speech Movement. Students gathered here to protest against the university’s restrictions on political activities and free speech. They demanded the right to organize and speak out on issues such as civil rights and opposition to the Vietnam War. One of the pivotal moments occurred in 1964 when police attempted to arrest a student activist, sparking a massive sit-in around a police car that lasted for 32 hours. This event marked a significant turning point in the movement, leading to widespread changes in university policies.

Mario Savio, a key figure in the Free Speech Movement, delivered some of his most famous speeches at Sproul Plaza. His passionate and eloquent calls for student rights and social justice resonated with thousands of students. One of his most famous lines, “There is a time when the operation of the machine becomes so odious…you’ve got to put your bodies upon the gears,” was delivered on these very steps. Savio’s legacy continues to inspire activism and free expression on campus.

Zellerbach Hall is home to Cal Performances, the west coast’s largest presenter of performing arts, including music, theater, and dance. The Zellerbach Auditorium can seat 1,984 people and is equipped for symphony orchestra, grand opera, ballet, and dramatic events. The hall plays a crucial role in Berkeley’s cultural life, offering a venue for both world-renowned artists and student performances.

Zellerbach Hall hosts a wide array of performances that cater to diverse tastes. From classical ballet and opera to contemporary dance and experimental theater, the hall has seen it all. Notably, the annual Cal Performances season features artists from around the globe, bringing international culture and artistry to the Berkeley community. Did you know? Zellerbach Hall also hosts the Berkeley Symphony, a local favorite known for its innovative programming.

Over the years, Zellerbach Hall has welcomed many famous performers and speakers. One notable event was a performance by the legendary cellist Yo-Yo Ma, who praised the hall’s acoustics as some of the best he has ever experienced. Other notable guests include the Dalai Lama and former President Jimmy Carter, whose lectures here have drawn large, enthusiastic crowds.