The African American Male Initiative

History

In December 2004, the college president assembled a committee to lead an effort addressing the declining enrollment of male students, particularly African Americans as outlined in Strategic Plan 2.4 - Maintain Student Ethnic Diversity.

• Action Plan 1: Identify mechanisms to recruit African Americans and especially males.
• Action Plan 2: Develop and provide programs for the retention and success of African American males, such as mentoring, athletic and other activities that increase student involvement and retention.

Out of this committee the African American Male Initiative was born. The goal of the committee is to increase African American enrollment to 20% of total student population. We will develop a plan to increase African American Male enrollment by 10% - 30%. The effort will include recruitment, retention and successful completion of the target population.

The Data

Looking at African American student enrollment since Fall 1995 through 2006, there has been a steady decline, particularly among African American men. 2005/2006 data (St. Philip’s College) shows that 4% of the graduating students were African American Males versus 9.8% African American Female; 29.2% Hispanic Males and 15.7% Anglo Males. Through peer and faculty/staff mentoring; learning communities and culturally centered curriculum, the AAMI will create a success network with the students in the center. This will allow for intervention at critical periods and provide more access to resources for the students.

(African American Male Initiative Strategy)