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Why Supporting Black Students at City Colleges of Chicago Matters
Engaging with Black students at City Colleges of Chicago has been one of the most eye-opening experiences of the year. Through listening sessions and one-on-one conversations, we worked to understand the barriers these students face…and not just academically…we ensure all students feel truly supported and valued by their institutions.
Recurring themes were readily clear…a lack of culturally responsive advising, limited mentorship opportunities, and the need for a stronger sense of community on campus. Addressing their individual challenges required advocating for additional funding to hire advisors who could provide tailored support. We also needed to coordinate with mentorship programs like One Million Degrees that connects students with professionals in their fields of interest.
Lasting impact of these initiatives goes beyond individual success. By addressing these systemic issues, we’re helping to build a more equitable educational landscape where students feel empowered to reach their full potential. We see their resilience and ambition as a reminder of why this work matters so deeply.
