1970: The Occupation of Lorimer Chapel. Tensions between administration and black students had reached a breaking point. In the spring of 1969, the Students Organization for Black Unity (SOBU) issued 'Proposals for a New Colby' detailing the need for significant change at Colby.

After scarce progress during the 1969-70 academic year, the group decided to take direct action. On March 2nd, 1970, 17 members of SOBU began an occupation of Lorimer Chapel with a list of 5 non-negotiable demands. The next day, President Strider responded, refusing to cooperate.

The occupation had reached one week in length when administration administration made a controversial decision and was granted a restraining order against the 17 students. They were given two hours to leave the building. Within one hour, the students left the building, stating