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Collaboration to Reopen Childcare Center on Community College Campus

Collaboration to Reopen Childcare Center on Community College Campus

 

Howard Community College President, Dr. Daria J. Willis, has unveiled plans to reopen the college’s on-campus Children’s Learning Center in collaboration with the Community Action Council of Howard County.

The center’s relaunch addresses crucial needs by reducing childcare expenses, introducing vital Early Head Start programs for infants and toddlers, and promoting degree completion among student parents in a college community of over 22,000 students, with 24% identifying as caregivers.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to Tracy Broccolino and the CAC, County Executive Calvin Ball, and numerous other champions who have made this day a reality,” expressed Willis. “This reopening ensures that young parents and their children have a supportive environment to work, learn, and aspire toward leadership roles within our community and beyond.”

Broccolino emphasized that the partnership aims to positively influence families and children for generations to come, underscoring the transformative impact of education and early childhood development.

The center, temporarily shuttered in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and associated budget constraints, received a $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education in 2023 to facilitate its reopening.

This grant, part of the federal Childcare Access Means Parents in School Grant Program, brings the college closer to reinstating a vital support service for hundreds of student parents pursuing higher education in Howard County.

“Access to childcare is paramount for scholar-parents’ academic persistence,” noted Dr. Ball. “I commend Dr. Willis and her team for recognizing this challenge and taking proactive measures to ensure scholar-parents receive the support they need to succeed.”

#ChildcareSupport #EducationAccess #StudentParents #CommunityPartnership #EarlyChildhoodEducation #HigherEducation #CommunityCollege #ChildcareGrant #StudentSuccess #FamilySupport #CommunityImpact

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It’s Summer! Reflect, Recharge, Recognize and Reignite Your Goals

Dear Students,

As Student Success Coaches, we would like to take this opportunity to reach out and communicate with you directly. We understand that your academic journey can be challenging, but please know that we are here to support you every step of the way.

We want to remind you that your success is our top priority. We are here to provide you with guidance, resources, and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you need assistance with time management, study skills, or navigating the university, we are here to help.

It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. For this reason we have created this entry to provide you with a direct message and to be able to contact us more directly. We hope you enjoy.

Student Success Coaches

It’s Summer! Reflect, Recharge, Recognize and Reignite Your Goals

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Welcome to June and, for some of you, the beginning of summer break! As we step into this new month, let’s take a moment to recognize the significance of June 19, Juneteenth—a vital celebration of freedom and resilience in Black history. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much further we can go together.

For those of you off for the summer, I hope you enjoy every moment. Bask in the sun, relax, and recharge. But remember to carve out a little time to review your notes and keep your mind fresh. A little effort now can make a big difference when classes resume.

Graduate students, I see you working hard without a summer break. It’s crucial to take short breaks, breathe, and rejuvenate. Self-care is essential. Remember why you started this journey and keep believing in yourself. You’re doing incredible work, and taking care of your well-being will help you go the distance.

For anyone contemplating going back to school, let me tell you—if it’s something you’ve always wanted or feel a desire to do, go for it. Time will pass regardless. Two years from now will be two years from now, whether you take the leap or not. The real question is, what will you be saying to yourself in two years if you don’t?

Here’s to a fantastic summer! Embrace each moment, take care of yourselves, and keep striving towards your goals.

Ndala M. Booker, Ed.D.

Chief Student Success Officer

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Making Equity a Priority

Making Equity a Priority

 

Dr. Keith Curry, President and CEO of Compton College, has spearheaded transformative initiatives to enhance equity and access to education.
Despite past accreditation challenges, under Curry’s leadership, Compton College has undergone significant revitalization, boasting over $118 million in renovations and securing funding for student success programs.

Addressing Student Needs

Curry’s focus extends beyond infrastructure to student welfare, particularly tackling food and housing insecurity. Initiatives like mobile food pantries and on-campus farmers’ markets underscore his commitment to student well-being.

Recognition as a Trailblazer

Curry’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Renowned educator Dr. Sara Goldrick-Rab lauds Curry’s tireless advocacy and transformative leadership, citing his instrumental role in advancing equity in higher education.

Growing up in Compton, Curry’s personal journey fuels his passion for educational equity. From his grassroots outreach to his ascent to college leadership, Curry’s story exemplifies the transformative power of education.

Building for the Future

Looking ahead, Curry is focused on completing campus projects and expanding enrollment to provide more students with access to quality education and workforce opportunities.

Curry’s collaborative spirit extends to the community. Partnering with other education leaders, Curry envisions a future where equity and student success are the norm.

#EquityInEducation #StudentSuccess #TransformativeLeadership #ComptonCollege #HigherEdEquity #CommunityPartnerships #HBCUs

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May Motivation and Making It to the Finish Line

Dear Students,

As Student Success Coaches, we would like to take this opportunity to reach out and communicate with you directly. We understand that your academic journey can be challenging, but please know that we are here to support you every step of the way.

We want to remind you that your success is our top priority. We are here to provide you with guidance, resources, and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you need assistance with time management, study skills, or navigating the university, we are here to help.

It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. For this reason we have created this entry to provide you with a direct message and to be able to contact us more directly. We hope you enjoy.

Student Success Coaches

May Motivation and Making It to the Finish Line

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Can you believe it’s May already? Time really flies when you’re knee-deep in assignments and chasing deadlines! As we gear up for the final stretch of the semester, it’s crucial to keep your eyes on the prize and finish strong. With exams looming just around the corner, now’s the time to buckle down and give it your all. Let’s carve out those precious study sessions, make those detailed study guides, and put in the extra effort to really nail those grades. But amidst the chaos of exams and papers, do not forget why you embarked on this academic journey in the first place. Whether it’s to pursue a passion, achieve a lifelong dream, or simply broaden your horizons, each of us has a unique purpose driving us forward. Hold onto that purpose tightly, especially when the going gets tough.

I know it’s sometimes easy to doubt yourself when the pressure is on.  But let me remind you: you’ve made it this far, and that’s no small feat! You are capable, you are resilient, and you absolutely have what it takes to succeed. So, rally together with your fellow students, support each other, and push through these last few weeks with determination and grit. The finish line is in sight, and I have no doubt that each and every one of you will cross it with flying colors.

You’ve got this!

FocusQuest is focused on you. Are you focused on you?

Ndala M. Booker, Ed.D.

Chief Student Success Officer

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Best HBCUs for Criminal Justice

Best HBCUs for Criminal Justice

Here we’ll highlight six of the top HBCUs for criminal justice careers.

Bowie State University – Bowie, MD

This HBCU offers an online degree as well as an off-site degree option at the University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland. Two active organizations on campus provide students with additional opportunities to engage with their criminal justice career aspirations: The Criminal Justice Club and Alpha Phi Sigma National Criminal Justice Honor Society. 

Morris College – Sumter, SC

Morris College is one HBCU that offers students majoring or minoring in Criminal Justice a comprehensive coursework program as well as hands-on application of theory and principles through a state-of-the-art criminal forensics laboratory, field experiences, as well as formal internships with various law enforcement agencies. Students can also minor in Criminal Forensics Studies at this HBCU.

North Carolina Central University – Durham, NC

NCCU’s Department of Criminal justice offers Criminal Justice B.S. and M.S. degrees. NCCU’s School of Law offers students courses in criminal defense, law, procedure, and prosecution.

Prairie View A&M University –  Prairie View, TX

Students can earn a B.S. in Criminal Justice at this HBCU. The College of Juvenile Justice undergraduate program leads to a B.S. in Criminal Justice with five concentrations and graduate degrees (M.S. and Ph.D.) in Juvenile Justice. The Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center was authorized to be created at PVAM in 1997 resulting in the College of Juvenile Justice. 

Shaw University – Raleigh, NC

In this HBCU’s unique program, Shaw students can earn a B.A. in Sociology with a concentration in criminal justice. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in law enforcement, probation and parole, corrections, court administration and others.

Texas Southern University – Houston, TX

Texas Southern’s Administration of Justice Department offers a B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. in Administration of Justice. The curriculum is for students planning careers in a range of professions including, judiciary, law enforcement, security administration, homeland security. Additionally, the coursework emphasizes administration and management in fields like contemporary criminal justice systems, victimology and juvenile justice.

 

#HBCUs #CriminalJustice #HigherEducation #Law #Justice #Forensics #Internships #CareerOpportunities #Education  #AdministrationOfJustice #Law #CriminalDefense #Prosecution #JuvenileCrime #LawEnforcementEducation #HBCUExcellence #StudentSuccess #HandsOnLearning #CareerPreparation #HBCUCommunity #Opportunity #MinorityEducation #FutureLeaders #ProfessionalDevelopment

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Spring Into Success: Embracing the Journey of the Final Weeks of the Semester

Dear Students,

As Student Success Coaches, we would like to take this opportunity to reach out and communicate with you directly. We understand that your academic journey can be challenging, but please know that we are here to support you every step of the way.

We want to remind you that your success is our top priority. We are here to provide you with guidance, resources, and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you need assistance with time management, study skills, or navigating the university, we are here to help.

It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. For this reason we have created this entry to provide you with a direct message and to be able to contact us more directly. We hope you enjoy.

Student Success Coaches

Spring Into Success: Embracing the Journey of the Final Weeks of the Semester

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Spring has sprung, and we find ourselves in the homestretch of the semester—a time buzzing with anticipation, fatigue, and the promise of new beginnings. Whether you’re logging into virtual classes or attending in-person sessions, you might be feeling the weight of end-of-year activities. Some of you are sprinting towards the finish line with a newfound energy, while others may be dragging their feet a bit. Wherever you fall on this spectrum, remember to lean on the study habits you’ve honed throughout the term.

As we approach finals, now’s the time to carve out dedicated space for preparation. Don’t leave it all to the last minute; give yourself the gift of ample time to review and revise. Additionally, consider dipping your toes into the pool of summer internships. Don’t hesitate to take steps that will propel you towards your professional aspirations.

Amidst the chaos and excitement, take a moment to appreciate where you are in your academic and life journey. This season, though hectic, is just a fleeting chapter in the grand story of your life. Embrace every moment—the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

As we bid adieu to another semester, let’s remain steadfast, resilient, and open to new opportunities. You’ve worked tirelessly to reach this point, and your perseverance is commendable. Keep pushing forward, and remember to savor the journey.

Wishing you all a successful April and a moment of reflection on how far you’ve come.

Ndala M. Booker, Ed.D.

Chief Student Success Officer

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Biden Calls for Greater Support of HBCUs, HSIs, and MSIs

Biden Calls for Greater Support of HBCUs, HSIs, and MSIs

When President Biden addressed over 32 million viewers for the annual State of the Union (SOTU) last week, he used the occasion to issue a full throttle support for higher education.

While speaking on his administration’s accomplishments in his last four years of service, Biden also addressed what he called “the future of possibilities we can build together.”

Biden has made access to affordable education a cornerstone of his presidential tenure, and he reinforced that position by calling for an increase in Pell Grants and a further increase in “our record investments in HBCUs [Historically Black Colleges and Universities] and Hispanic and Minority Serving Institutions [HSIs and MSIs].”

Scholars say that they were pleased by the president’s mention of these institutions and hope to see his call to action translate into increased funding for these under-resourced yet high-achieving institutions.

“[The speech] was very fiery,” said Dr. Pietro A. Sasso, an associate professor of higher education at Delaware State University, an HBCU in Dover. “That tone and fervor carried over when he talked about HBCUs and MSIs and HSIs. He was just as passionate and bold when he was talking about that in the same way he talked about other crises. It’s not just student loans, it’s trying to engage in addressing the structural funding inequities.”

Dr. Royel M. Johnson, professor at the Rossier School of Education at the University of Southern California (USC) and director of the National Assessment of Collegiate Campus Climates in the USC Race and Equity Center, said that Biden’s call for more investments “hopefully signifies that [his administration] will double down on their commitment to these institutions, given their vital role to our society and democracy.”

#StateOfTheUnion #Biden #HigherEducation #HBCUs #HSIs #MSIs #AffordableEducation #Education #FundingEquality #AccessToEducation #EquityInEducation #EducationPolicy #BuildingTogether #SupportForEducation #InvestInEducation #StructuralInequities #SocialJustice #CommunityColleges #SupportingMinorities #Empowerment #Opportunity #Scholarships #StudentSuccess

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Empowering Black Men at Community College of Baltimore County

Empowering Black Men at Community College of Baltimore County

Adrianne Washington, dean of special academic programs at the Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC), noticed a gap in the Honors Program that didn’t sit right with her. She realized that Black men were being overlooked in the program’s success, prompting her to take action.

Washington’s journey began with a mission to recruit and empower African American men as part of the Honors Program’s transformation into a full-fledged Honors College. Over her 15-year tenure at CCBC, she has expanded her roles, ensuring that her work remains student-centered.

As the dean of the nascent Honors College, Washington is focused on ensuring proportional demographic representation, diversity in the classroom, and community engagement. She emphasizes the importance of catering to the needs of community college students, including part-time and non-traditional learners.

Washington envisions innovative changes for the Honors College, such as offering evening and remote synchronous courses to meet students where they are. The transition to a college will bring upgrades like experiential learning, research opportunities, and merit scholarships.

Through deliberate efforts, Washington has successfully integrated minority men into the Honors College, challenging stereotypes and providing opportunities for their academic success. Dr. Sunni Solomon, director of CCBC’s Male Student Success Initiative, praises Washington’s advocacy and inclusivity, ensuring that all students feel welcome and supported.

Washington’s dedication to student needs and her collaborative approach have earned her praise from colleagues and students alike. As the Honors College enters its pilot stage, Washington remains committed to serving students and meeting their evolving needs.

#CCBC #HonorsCollege #Empowerment #Diversity #Innovation #CommunityCollege

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Greetings, Focused Scholars!

Dear Students,

As Student Success Coaches, we would like to take this opportunity to reach out and communicate with you directly. We understand that your academic journey can be challenging, but please know that we are here to support you every step of the way.

We want to remind you that your success is our top priority. We are here to provide you with guidance, resources, and support to help you achieve your academic goals. Whether you need assistance with time management, study skills, or navigating the university, we are here to help.

It is important to remember that you are not alone in this journey. For this reason we have created this entry to provide you with a direct message and to be able to contact us more directly. We hope you enjoy.

Student Success Coaches

Greetings, Focused Scholars!

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As we continue our journey through the semester, I want to circle back to our February discussion about striving for excellence and practicing kindness. This March, as we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s honor the incredible women in our lives by embodying these principles. Let’s emulate their strength, resilience, and compassion as we navigate our academic and personal endeavors.

With midterms looming on the horizon, it’s essential to carve out time for preparation. Instead of cramming at the last minute, consider spreading out your study sessions over a reasonable period. Break down your study material into manageable chunks and allocate time each day to review. Trust me, it’s much easier to absorb information this way. Plan your study sessions strategically, allowing yourself breaks to recharge and maintain focus.

And while we’re on the topic of planning, let’s not forget about Spring Break! While it’s a well-deserved time for relaxation and fun, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and responsibility. Whether you’re traveling or staying local, make smart choices and look out for one another. Remember, your well-being is paramount, so take care of yourselves and each other

As we navigate through March, let’s honor the legacy of remarkable women, prioritize our studies with mindful preparation, and enjoy a well-deserved break responsibly.

Wishing you all a successful and enjoyable month ahead!

Ndala M. Booker, Ed.D.

Chief Student Success Officer

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Sacramento State Launches First Black Honors College

Sacramento State Launches First Black Honors College

Sacramento State, home to the largest population of Black students in the California State University (CSU) system, is introducing what will become the nation’s inaugural Black Honors College.

Set to commence operations in the fall, the honors college will admit students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher and a passion for Black history, life, and culture.

Dr. J. Luke Wood, who assumed leadership of the institution seven months ago, expressed, “This is part of a broader initiative to improve success rates for Black students. We’re establishing an institution within the institution.”

Unlike Honors Colleges at other institutions, which have developed specialized programs to attract Black students, Sacramento State’s approach is distinct. The entire college is being tailored specifically for Black students.

The college will have its own dean, director, counselors, academic advisors, and support staff, drawing from faculty with a proven track record of teaching Black students.

Accepted students will complete their General Education (GE) classes in the college, with small class sizes and mentoring primarily by Black faculty members. The curriculum will focus on the Black experience, influenced by Pan-African studies.

Dr. Wood hopes to recruit students who might otherwise attend for-profit colleges or historically Black colleges and universities in other states.

The idea took shape following the release of a CSU report last June, titled “Advancing Black Student Success and Elevating Black Excellence in the CSU: A Call to Action.”

Despite potential criticism, Dr. Wood remains committed to the vision, aiming to replicate it at other institutions nationwide.

Administrators have allocated over 6,000 square feet of space for the college, including seminar rooms, study areas, and a lounge in the library.

Selected students will have the opportunity to live in a dedicated community.

Initial funding and support have been secured to enroll the first 500 students. Recruiters are promoting the college in high schools across California.

Ruth Williams, the staff director for the Honors College, and Dr. Boatamo “Ati” Mosupyoe, the inaugural dean of students, express excitement about the college’s potential.

Dr. Wood emphasizes the importance of improving success rates for Black students, aiming to reverse the institution’s historical trend of low success rates among this demographic.


#FocusQuest #Sacramento #SacramentoState #BlackHonorsCollege #HigherEducation #Empowerment #Innovation

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