Increasing The Enrollment, Retention, And Success Of Men Of Color In Community Colleges: A Framework For Policy And Institutional Responsibility (2022)

This comprehensive report by Frank Harris III and J. Luke Wood outlines critical issues and strategies for improving the enrollment, retention, and success of men of color in community colleges. The report emphasizes the role of community colleges as essential gateways for upward mobility for historically underserved groups, yet it also highlights significant challenges these students face, exacerbated by systemic issues and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Main Takeaways:

  • Disproportionate Impact of the Pandemic: The report indicates that men of color, particularly Black and Native American students, experienced higher rates of enrollment decline during the pandemic.
  • Systemic Issues: Factors such as racially hostile campus climates, employment challenges, and basic needs insecurities are identified as significant barriers to the success of men of color in community colleges.
  • Socio-Ecological Outcomes Model: This model is presented as a framework to understand and address the complex interplay of individual, communal, and systemic factors affecting these students.
  • Policy and Institutional Recommendations: The authors propose actionable recommendations for policymakers and institutional leaders, such as enhancing data systems, investing in dual enrollment programs, and integrating goals related to men of color into institutional strategic plans.
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