Students are invited to attend a series of workshops focused on resources and support for Black and African American students.
The Peralta Community College District and the California Community Colleges system announce the return of Black Student Success Week, April 22-26, celebrating its fifth year! This year’s theme is Building a Better Future Together: the Urgency is Now.
"As we kick off Black Student Success Week today, let's reflect on the transformative power of change in higher education for Black students in California. As educators, it's our duty to ensure every Black student thrives academically. Proudly representing Peralta Community College District and the Peralta Colleges -- Berkeley City College, College of Alameda, Laney College, and Merritt College, the birthplace of the Black Panther Party -- I urge us to reimagine our relationship to the past, and to think critically about the meaning of racial justice and liberatory education today," commented Dr. Tammeil Gilkerson, Peralta Community College District Chancellor. "Let's collaborate to build inclusive environments where all students excel. Join us in honoring Black student achievements, acknowledging their hurdles and celebrating their brilliance together. Let's advocate for policies fostering Black student success. Our united effort will forge a better future for everyone."
Each day of Black Student Success Week will begin with a #TheBlackHour webinar from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. A panel of educators and experts will share insights and approaches for improving success for Black and African American students attending California community colleges. More than 5,000 attendees are expected to participate in the virtual webinars throughout the week. Register for the webinars here: https://blkstudentsuccess.com/
Immediately following #TheBlackHour, a small group will gather online for #TheAfterParty. Participants will engage in an hour-long, expanded discussion on the topic of the day to further explore innovative solutions.
Register for #TheStudentHour webinars by clicking here.
“We must be persistent in addressing the issues so that Black and African American students not only enroll in college, but also complete courses and return each semester to graduate, receive their certificate, or transfer to a four-year university to complete a bachelor’s degree,” said Dr. Keith Curry, President and CEO of Compton College and Chair of the Black Student Success Week Committee.
Events are happening on the Merritt College campus as well, where Umoja, Sankofa, and NextUp are proud to announce Black Empowerment Week starting Monday, April 22. This year's theme is "Forging a Collective Future: Seizing the Urgency of the Moment!"
We have a list of activities that aim to inspire, educate, and celebrate the achievements and contributions of the Black community. Your presence and participation would mean a lot to us.
You can register by clicking the following link below:
https://forms.office.com/r/jU5i8PEucZ
Event Details
- Date: April 22-26
- Time: 12:00-2:00 pm
- Location: Merritt College Student Lounge Rm 110
- Lunch will be provided
Event Activities
- April 22: "The Social Black Out" – Develop and share tools with strategies for student recruitment, retention, and support (Facilitator: Jasmine Bledsoe)
- April 23: "Discovering your Strengths" – Unlocking your ability to create a way to serve others through business (Facilitator: Lenora Williams)
- April 25: "Black Financial Literature" – Learning the importance of saving, budgeting, credit, debt management, investing, and building a banking relationship (Facilitator: Kiara Bowling)
- April 26: "Visualize your Black Excellence: Creating Vision Boards" – Empowering individuals to manifest their aspirations through the creation of vision boards (Facilitator: Margie Rubio)
Returning for the second year is #TheStudentHour, a student-centered series presented by the California Community Colleges’ ICanGoToCollege.com Campaign. These webinars, which will be held from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Thursday, will be hosted by an iHeartMedia on-air personality. A student-led panel, along with Chancellor’s Office representatives and other guests, will share information regarding resources tailored to Black students to improve their college experience and outcomes. These special workshops are intended for current community college students, high school students, and older adults who are thinking about returning to college.
The California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office has extended a challenge to all colleges to host #TheStudentHour watch parties where groups of students can gather on campus to view the webinars and have discussions. Students who register for watch parties will be entered to win a Starbucks gift card, along with a chance to win a $100 VISA gift card or a grand prize comprising products valued at $1,000 along with other #TheStudentHour participants. Check with the Umoja or A²MEND office to ask if there is a watch party on campus or if one can be organized.
More information can be found on the new Black Student Success Week website at blkstudentsuccess.com. The website provides information regarding the week’s activities, including registration, the schedule of events, and an overview of topics.
For updates regarding the week, follow @cablackstudents on X (twitter.com) and Instagram.
