‘We are committed to increasing the opportunities for Black students to attain the life-changing benefits of a CSU degree, and that can only begin when we are accountable to each other and to our students’
A Sacramento State University honors college focused on black students received a monetary boost recently.
California State University’s system awarded $250,000 to the initiative.
It will be the “nation’s first Black honors college,” according to a university announcement.
While the news release says the college “will offer high-achieving students of all races, cultures and majors a comprehensive curriculum focusing on the Black and African American experience,” other language indicates the initiative will not be focused on helping white students.
“We are committed to increasing the opportunities for Black students to attain the life-changing benefits of a CSU degree, and that can only begin when we are accountable to each other and to our students,” Deputy Vice Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs Dilcie Perez stated.
“We commend the universities for participating in a frank self-assessment of campus offerings, which highlighted areas of strength as well as opportunities for growth, cross-campus and collaboration and innovation in supporting Black students,” Perez also stated.
She referenced a report on “Black Student Success.”
“We are committed to increasing the opportunities for Black students to attain the life-changing benefits of a CSU degree, and that can only begin when we are accountable to each other and to our students,” she said.
“The Black Honors College will feature specialized general education courses with smaller classes and faculty members who have a record of success serving Black students,” the university announced.
President Luke Wood also used language indicating this is not just about teaching black history, but about pouring resources specifically into programming for black students.
“After arriving at Sacramento State, I knew it was time to launch something innovative that highlighted Black success and excellence,” Wood stated.
“There’s no other place in the country that has an honors college that’s specifically designed toserve black and African-American students,” Wood said in an unlisted video about the initiative.
A prior news release announcing the program also highlighted how it would be focused on black students and provide them special opportunities.
“The Black Honors College is designed to create a pathway for our Black students at Sacramento State that has never existed, to uplift our scholars, and to help them persist to graduation Honors College Dean of Students Boatamo “Ati” Mosupyoe stated in February.
“There will be an intentional focus on authentic mentorship to adjust students to the rigors of college, paid internship opportunities to give students tangible experience, and elite co-curricular education to enhance their overall college experience.”
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IMAGE: Sac State Student/YouTube
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