San Diego City and San Diego Mesa Colleges Recognized for Excellence in Supporting Black Students

December 17, 2025

Two San Diego community colleges have received a new state designation as Black-Serving Institutions under recently enacted California legislation. Senate Bill 1348, which became effective in January 2025, created this designation for colleges meeting specific enrollment thresholds for Black students and demonstrating commitment to removing barriers to their success. San Diego City College and San Diego Mesa College were among 31 campuses statewide approved in the program's first round, joining two UC campuses, three CSU campuses, and one private institution.

Who is affected

Black and/or African American students enrolled at California colleges and universities
San Diego City College and San Diego Mesa College (and their presidents Ricky Shabazz and Ashanti Hands)
31 California campuses total (2 UC campuses, 3 CSU campuses, 25 California Community Colleges, and 1 private/independent institution)
Students in support programs including Umoja community, Hermanos Unidos Brothers United, A2MEND chapters, Black Student Union, and Harambee Protocol participants

What action is being taken

California's Governing Board for Black-Serving Institutions is approving campuses for the designation
San Diego City and Mesa colleges are operating multiple support programs and services for Black students
The colleges are working to eliminate equity gaps and improve persistence, completion, and transfer rates among Black students

Why it matters

This designation is significant because it formally recognizes institutions addressing systemic barriers that have prevented Black students from reaching their full potential. It comes at a time when equity initiatives are being questioned in many spaces, and addresses a critical disparity: Black students in California Community Colleges have the lowest completion of degrees, certificates, and transfer rates compared to White and Asian peers. The designation represents both validation of existing efforts and a strengthened institutional commitment to create supportive learning environments and expand opportunities for Black student success.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint