Georgia Gwinnett College’s Elite Scholars Program Boosts Black Male Graduation Rates

Read Time:3 Minute, 9 Second

The AAMI is an initiative of the University System of Georgia, launched to improve black male graduation rates in its 26 schools, including GGC. GGC’s AAMI/Elite Scholars program, debuted at the college in 2011. It’s designed to meet students where they are, according to Dr. Brandon Lewis, who began overseeing the initiative in 2021. Lewis, an associate professor in GGC’s School of Education, sees the program as the catalyst that attracts historically marginalized students, gives them an outlet for their experiences and feelings and offers a way for them to navigate their college experience — and beyond — with purpose.

Source: Gwinnett Daily Post

10 Facts About Black Males & College

Black males are less likely than any other group to enroll in college immediately after high school graduation.
The college graduation rate for Black males is significantly lower than for any other racial or ethnic group.
Black males are more likely to attend community colleges or for-profit colleges than four-year institutions.
Black males are more likely to attend historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) than non-HBCUs.
Black males are more likely to major in fields related to sports, entertainment, or criminal justice than in fields related to science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM).
Black males are more likely to experience financial challenges that prevent them from completing college, including the cost of tuition, textbooks, and living expenses.
Black males are more likely to experience discrimination and bias on college campuses, including racial profiling and stereotyping.
Black males are more likely to be disciplined and suspended from college for minor infractions, such as dress code violations, than other students.
Black males are more likely to be first-generation college students, which can pose unique challenges in terms of navigating the college system and accessing support services.
Black males are more likely to benefit from mentorship and support programs that focus specifically on their needs and experiences in college, such as the Black Male Initiative (BMI) or the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE).

5 Important Reasons For Black Males To Get A College Education

Economic Opportunities: A college education can provide Black males with greater economic opportunities and financial stability. Studies have shown that college graduates, on average, earn more over their lifetime than those with only a high school diploma.
Closing the Racial Wealth Gap: Black males have historically faced systemic barriers to building wealth, and a college education can be a powerful tool in closing the racial wealth gap. With higher salaries and access to better job opportunities, Black males can accumulate wealth and pass it on to future generations.
Leadership Opportunities: Black males are significantly underrepresented in positions of leadership in business, politics, and other fields. A college education can provide Black males with the skills and credentials necessary to break through these barriers and assume leadership roles.
Cultural Representation: Black males are also underrepresented in many academic and professional fields. By pursuing a college education, Black males can increase their representation in these fields and serve as role models and mentors for future generations.
Personal Growth: A college education can also provide Black males with opportunities for personal growth and development. College offers exposure to diverse perspectives and ideas, and can provide opportunities for community involvement and service.

Overall, a college education can provide Black males with the tools, skills, and opportunities they need to succeed personally and professionally, and to make a positive impact on their communities and society as a whole.

More News