'We are committed to increasing the opportunities for Black students to obtain the life-changing benefits of a CSU degree, and this can only begin when we hold ourselves accountable to each other and our students.'
Sacramento State University, an honors college serving black students, recently received funding.
The California State University system provided $250,000 toward the initiative.
According to a university release, the college will be “the nation’s first black honors college.”
The press release says the university will “offer a comprehensive curriculum focused on the Black and African American experience to high-performing students of all races, cultures and majors,” but other language says the plan is aimed at helping white students. Indicates that there will be no focus.
“We are committed to increasing opportunities for Black students to obtain the life-changing benefits of a CSU degree, and that can only begin when we hold ourselves accountable to each other and our students,” said Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs. Dilcie Perez said.
“We also commend colleges and universities for supporting Black students by engaging in honest self-assessments of campus offerings, highlighting areas of strength and opportunities for growth, cross-campus, collaboration and innovation,” Perez said.
She referenced a report on “Black Student Success.”
“We are committed to increasing the opportunities for Black students to obtain the life-changing benefits of a CSU degree, and that can only begin when we hold ourselves accountable to each other and our students,” she said.
“The Black Honors College will offer specialized general education courses with small class sizes and faculty with experience successfully serving Black students,” the college announced.
President Luke Wood also used language to indicate that this is not just about teaching black history, but about pouring resources specifically into programming for black students.
“Once I arrived at Sacramento State, I knew it was time to start something innovative that highlights Black success and excellence,” Wood said.
“There is no place in the country that has an honors college specifically designed for black and African-American students,” Wood said in a private video about the plan.
A previous press release announcing the program also emphasized how the program would focus on black students and provide them with special opportunities.
“The Black Honors College is designed to create pathways that did not previously exist for Black students at Sacramento State, elevate our scholars, and help them pursue graduation. Honors College Dean of Students Boatamo “Ati” Mosupyoe said in February.
“We will intentionally focus on authentic mentorship to acclimate students to the rigorous environment of college, paid internship opportunities to provide students with practical experience, and elite co-curricular training to enhance the overall college experience.”
more: New York University Law Center to address 'environmental racism'
Image: Sac State Student/YouTube
Learn more
good night college fix On Facebook / Follow us on Twitter