Long Beach City College name its new state-of-the-art performing arts center in honor of legendary singer and Long Beach native Jenni Rivera, LBCC has announced.
The LBCC Board of Trustees unanimously approved the naming of the new performing arts center during its monthly meeting last week. The Jenni Rivera Performing Arts Center will stand as a permanent tribute to Rivera’s legacy as a trailblazing artist, beloved community figure, and powerful advocate for education, women’s empowerment and the Latino community, according to a press release.
“This naming recognizes not just an extraordinary performer, but a daughter of Long Beach whose voice and spirit transcended borders,” Uduak-Joe Ntuk, president of the Board of Trustees, said in a statement. “Jenni Rivera inspired millions through her music, resilience and advocacy. We are proud that future generations of artists will learn and create in a space that bears her name.”
The new facility will include a 300-seat main stage theater, a 50-seat black box venue, recording and digital production studios, rehearsal spaces, and flexible learning environments designed to support music, dance, theater, and multimedia arts programs, according to a press release. The performing arts center is one of the signature projects supported by Measure LB and Measure E bonds approved by local voters.
“The Jenni Rivera Performing Arts Center will reflect the cultural richness and diversity of our city,” Superintendent-President Mike Muñoz said in a statement. “Jenni’s story is one of perseverance, authenticity and pride in her roots, and mirrors the experiences of so many LBCC students. We hope her name on this beautiful new facility reminds every student that their voice matters and their dreams are within reach.”
Rivera, who died in 2012, was born and raised in Long Beach and rose to international acclaim as one of the most influential voices in regional Mexican music, specifically in the styles of banda, mariachi and norteño. She attended LBCC from 1987 to 1989 before transferring to Cal State Long Beach, where she obtained a degree in business administration.
Her philanthropic work, entrepreneurial achievements, and commitment to uplifting women and families continue to inspire fans around the world, college officials said.
“Our family is deeply honored that Long Beach City College has chosen to memorialize Jenni in this extraordinary way,” Jacqie Rivera, CEO of Jenni Rivera Enterprises, said in a statement. “Long Beach shaped who Jenni was – as an artist, a mother, and a woman committed to her community. Knowing that young performers will grow, train, and find their creative voice in a center that carries her name is profoundly meaningful to us.”
Construction on the new facility is nearly complete at the Liberal Arts Campus, and is anticipated to open in the spring.