Angered that President Trent had compromised the intent of the founders, many began to rethink the original struggle over who should be president of the College. (…) Medgar had become the only CUNY College to accept community college status while many of the other CUNY schools gained back their original status. In addition, while other CUNY units had quality day care facilities, the lack of day care facilities at Medgar Evers increased the anger of the largely older female student population.

These contradictions and concerns hovered over the College for the next five to six years. It was, therefore, not surprising that in April 1982 differences between President Trent and a popular Dean of Administration erupted into a full-scale uprising. Students were consistently angry at the President and his administration. They had numerous complaints ranging from their perceived mistreatment in administrative offices to their concern over the lack of Black Studies at the College. Fueled by this anger, students took over the President’s office and drew up a list of demands that were later submitted to the Board. These demands included: the removal of President Trent; the renewal of senior college status; the creation of Black Studies and Women Studies and an Honors program; funds for an expanded library; the creation of a Women’s Center; and the development of day care to help the 75% female population. (…)

The student takeover, which was supported by some faculty, staff, and community members led to the establishment of the Student, Faculty, Community Coalition to Save Medgar Evers College. “The Coalition” (…) made it clear that they wanted a president who understood the mission of the College and insisted that they were willing to continue the struggle begun eighteen years ago. (…)

The lawyers took the case before the Brooklyn Supreme Court, and the Coalition gained a historic victory that granted them the right to remain peacefully in the President’s office. (…) The protest and the take-over of the President’s office lasted 110 days, and besides the successful removal of the president, the Coalition subsequently gained the victory of establishing a day care center in what had been his plush office.

Florence Tager & Zala Highsmith-Taylor. Medgar Evers College: The Pursuit of a Community’s Dream. 2008. P. 98-101.