Contra Costa College has been officially designated as one of California’s first Black-Serving Institutions (BSIs) under the newly enacted California Black-Serving Institutions Program Act (SB 1348).
“Contra Costa College has a long history of serving Black students, but until now, there has not been a formal designation recognizing that work,” said Contra Costa College President Dr. Kimberly R. Rogers. “With this designation, Contra Costa College is now an Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institution, a Hispanic-Serving Institution, and a Black-Serving Institution.”
The BSI designation reflects Contra Costa College’s ongoing commitment to supporting, celebrating, and empowering Black students through programs that foster community, cultural connection, academic opportunity, and leadership development.
Among these programs is the African American Male Leadership (AAML) program, which provides Black men with opportunities to build leadership skills, connect with mentors and community leaders, and develop a success-focused mindset through events, guest speakers, and networking opportunities.
The African American Studies pathway offers students an academic foundation focused on the histories, cultures, and experiences of people of African descent. Drawing from the humanities, behavioral sciences, and social sciences, the pathway strengthens critical thinking, writing, and civic engagement while preparing students for transfer and careers in fields such as law, education, public policy, journalism, and social work.
Student-led programs such as the Black Student Union and the Black Experience speaker series further create spaces for community, cultural affirmation, dialogue, and shared identity.
Contra Costa College also offers experiential and transfer-focused opportunities, including the annual Get on the Plane Tour of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and an HBCU Transfer Guarantee agreement, which provides direct transfer pathways to 37 HBCUs nationwide.
What the BSI Designation Means
The Black-Serving Institution designation recognizes colleges and universities that demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting Black and African American students through robust academic resources, culturally responsive support services, and clear pathways to student success. To qualify under SB 1348, institutions must enroll either at least 10 percent Black or African American students or at least 1,500 Black or African American students.
Looking Ahead
As a newly designated Black-Serving Institution, Contra Costa College will continue its decades-long work to strengthen access, retention, academic achievement, and transfer or career outcomes for Black students.