I am excited to share findings from a recent report based on my dissertation research at San Diego State University (SDSU). This study analyzes how Black students at SDSU build and maintain a sense of community, even when representing only 4% of the student body.
With the ongoing push to enhance Black student success, particularly through the proposed Black serving institution (BSI) bill in California, this research serves as an example of the potential for Black students to thrive.
What I Found
The research highlights the resilience and active engagement of the Black community at SDSU. Key spaces like the Afrikan Student Union (ASU) and the Black Resource Center (BRC) play crucial roles in fostering belonging and support. These spaces help Black students explore their cultural identity, receive peer support, and advocate for change despite significant hidden labor costs.
Why It Matters
The study underscores the importance of Black liberatory spaces—intellectual, physical, and communal—in creating a supportive environment for Black students. These include:
Intellectual Spaces: The Africana Studies Department and BRC academic program offers culturally relevant courses and events.
Physical Spaces: Spaces like the BRC and Black freshmen dorms provide safe spaces for study, cultural exploration, and advocacy.
Communal Spaces: Black student organizations like the ASU, social media platforms, and Black cultural events facilitate real-time communication and community building.
Recommendations for the Future
To enhance support for Black students at SDSU, I recommend increasing resources for Black student organizations, boosting Black faculty and staff representation, addressing systemic barriers, and recognizing the hidden labor in sustaining the Black community. Additionally, programs like the BRC's academic initiative, which boasts a 100% graduation rate, can serve as a model for improving student outcomes across the university.
This research sheds light on the power of community and the incredible efforts of Black students to create spaces where they can thrive. By implementing these recommendations, SDSU can create a more inclusive and supportive environment that fosters all students’ academic and social success.
To download the Black Placemaking Report 2024 click here.
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