In April, the California State University (CSU) system allocated $4,630,846 for one-time funding to its 23 universities to advance Black student success and elevate Black excellence across the system. Sonoma State was awarded $250,000 of the fund.
"This is important because it reevaluates how the system supports Black students and addresses persistent trends of low enrollment, retention, and graduation from Black students throughout the system," SSU Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Gerald Jones said.
Jones is co-chair of the Black Student Success initiative at SSU along with Jerlena Griffin-Desta, Ph.D., Chief of Staff to the President and Vice President of Strategic The funding award is part of CSU's $10-million commitment to Black Student Success, budgeted over three years to support programs in the Black Student Success Report
In the report, SSU is highlighted for the school’s guaranteed admission agreements with regional school districts; VIBES, a Black-themed living and learning residential community creating a welcoming space for Black students; and the university’s support for Black faculty and other faculty of color.
CSU Chancellor Mildred García said leaders across the system are "thinking broadly and acting boldly to advance institutional change.
"With a primary focus on ensuring that Black students attain their academic goals and are positioned for a lifetime of success, we also intend this funding to strengthen enrollment and retention efforts, improve classroom experiences, and bolster staff and faculty development across the system," she said.
Jones said SSU's initiative will focus on three areas: recruitment outreach, student internships and assistantships, and faculty retention.
The overarching goal is to have a Black Cultural Center where faculty can host specific office hours, as well as programs and lectures open to the wider public and community.
"This has been something that our students and staff have been asking for so they can have a place that gives them a sense of belonging," Jones said.
He said the CSU funds and the potential growth are welcome.
"I'm excited to do the work," he said. "And I'm excited to do a deep dive into the data and continue to grow and support our students."
- Krista Sherer, Strategic Communications Writer