San Diego, December 25, 2025
San Diego City College and Mesa College have been designated as Black-Serving Institutions (BSIs), effective January 2025. This recognition reflects their commitment to supporting Black and African American students and mitigating systemic barriers in higher education. Both colleges have implemented programs aimed at improving educational outcomes for their Black student populations, addressing disparities in completion rates and fostering an inclusive academic environment.
San Diego Colleges Earn Black-Serving Institution Designation
City College and Mesa College recognized for support of Black students
San Diego, California – In a significant step towards supporting Black and African American students, San Diego City College and Mesa College have been officially recognized as Black-Serving Institutions (BSIs). This designation, which will come into effect on January 1, 2025, was established through Senate Bill 1348, aimed at addressing systemic barriers faced by Black students in higher education.
The BSI designation is given to California colleges and universities that have at least 10% of their enrolled student population identifying as Black and/or African American, or those with a minimum of 1,500 Black and/or African American students. With City College and Mesa College meeting these criteria, they join 31 institutions across the state that are recognized for their commitment to improving educational outcomes for Black students.
Commitment to Student Success
Both institutions are taking proactive measures to enhance the educational experience for their Black student populations. City College has implemented programs such as the Umoja community, Hermanos Unidos Brothers United (HUBU), and a chapter of A2MEND. These initiatives are designed to bolster persistence, completion, and transfer rates among Black students. Similarly, Mesa College has introduced The Harambee Protocol, which includes an A2MEND chapter, Black Student Union, Umoja, and a Black Studies Department, focusing on creating an inclusive academic environment.
Addressing Inequities in Education
While these initiatives demonstrate a commitment to equity, the California Community Colleges system continues to face challenges. Notably, Black students have the lowest completion rates compared to their White and Asian peers. The BSI designation aims to mitigate these disparities by not only recognizing the ongoing efforts at City College and Mesa College but also by encouraging further initiatives that can lead to improved outcomes.
Broad Impact of San Diego Community College District
The San Diego Community College District, which encompasses City College and Mesa College, serves an impressive 90,000 students each year across its three credit colleges and seven campuses of the College of Continuing Education. This broad outreach emphasizes the district’s responsibility and dedication to fostering an inclusive environment for historically marginalized groups.
Benefits of the BSI Designation
The designation as a Black-Serving Institution is more than a mere title; it represents a focused strategy to enhance support for Black and African American students. With the backing of the BSI designation, institutions like City College and Mesa College can gain access to additional resources and funding aimed at developing tailored programs that can effectively address the unique challenges these students face.
Moreover, the focus on entrepreneurship and small-business innovation is vital within this context. By providing robust support for Black students, these colleges can promote future leaders and entrepreneurs who can contribute significantly to the San Diego County economy. Creating opportunities for success not only benefits the students but also strengthens local communities and the region’s overall economic landscape.
Conclusion
The recent designation of San Diego City College and Mesa College as Black-Serving Institutions marks a promising development in the efforts to promote educational equality and support for Black students. As these institutions continue to develop their programs and foster inclusive environments, they not only uplift their student bodies but also play a crucial role in the broader context of San Diego’s economic growth and community development. Residents are encouraged to support local efforts that empower students and entrepreneurs alike, ensuring a vibrant and resilient future for all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Black-Serving Institution (BSI) designation?
The BSI designation is a recognition established by Senate Bill 1348, effective January 1, 2025, for California colleges and universities that actively address systemic barriers hindering Black students’ success. Institutions must have at least 10% of their enrolled student population identifying as Black and/or African American, or a minimum of 1,500 Black and/or African American students.
Which colleges in San Diego have received the BSI designation?
San Diego City College and Mesa College have been officially designated as Black-Serving Institutions.
What programs do these colleges offer to support Black students?
City College offers programs such as the Umoja community, Hermanos Unidos Brothers United (HUBU), and a chapter of A2MEND, focusing on improving persistence, completion, and transfer rates among Black students. Mesa College has implemented The Harambee Protocol, encompassing an A2MEND chapter, Black Student Union, Umoja, the Black Faculty Counselor Collaborative, and a Black Studies Department, to support Black student success.
Why is the BSI designation important?
Despite these initiatives, Black students in the California Community Colleges system have the lowest completion rates compared to their White and Asian peers. The BSI designation aims to address these disparities by recognizing and supporting institutions dedicated to Black student achievement.
How many institutions in California have received the BSI designation?
31 institutions statewide have been recognized with the BSI designation for their efforts in supporting Black and African American students.
Key Features of the Black-Serving Institution Designation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility Criteria | Colleges with at least 10% of enrolled students identifying as Black and/or African American, or a minimum of 1,500 Black and/or African American students. |
| Statewide Recognition | 31 institutions across California have received the BSI designation. |
| Support Programs | Initiatives like Umoja community, HUBU, A2MEND, Harambee Protocol, Black Student Union, and Black Studies Department. |
| Addressing Completion Rates | Aims to improve completion rates for Black students, who currently have the lowest rates in the California Community Colleges system. |
| District Commitment | San Diego Community College District serves approximately 90,000 students annually, emphasizing support for historically marginalized communities. |
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