In a landmark move to address longstanding educational disparities, California has introduced the nation's first official "Black-Serving Institution" (BSI) designation, recognizing colleges and universities committed to advancing Black student success.

Signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in September 2024, Senate Bill 1348 (SB 1348) establishes criteria for institutions to qualify as BSIs, including specific enrollment thresholds and strategic initiatives focused on Black student achievement. Sacramento State University, enrolling the largest number of Black students in the California State University (CSU) system, was honored as the state's first BSI in June 2024, setting a precedent for others to follow.

Background and Legislative Details

Authored by Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena), SB 1348 was introduced to address systemic barriers that have historically led to lower college enrollment and graduation rates among Black students in California. The bill was signed into law on September 26, 2024, and took effect on January 1, 2025.

To qualify for the BSI designation, institutions must meet one of the following criteria:

• A Black student enrollment of at least 10% of the total student population.

• A minimum of 1,500 Black students enrolled.

Additionally, eligible institutions are required to:

• Develop strategic plans aimed at improving academic equity for Black students.

• Allocate resources to implement these plans.

• Provide culturally relevant professional development for faculty and staff.

Implementation and Oversight

The CSU Statewide Central Office for the Advancement of Black Excellence is tasked with managing the application and designation process for BSIs. This office oversees efforts to better serve Black students throughout the CSU system and will manage the BSI designation process.

A governing board, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, will oversee the designation process. The board includes representatives from California's higher education systems and state leadership. Lieutenant Governor Kounalakis emphasized the significance of this initiative, stating, "California is making history with the launch of the Black-Serving Institution designation—an initiative that will open doors, break barriers, and ensure that Black students have the resources and support they need to thrive in higher education."

Sacramento State University: A Trailblazer

Prior to the enactment of SB 1348, Sacramento State University was recognized as California's first Black-Serving Institution in June 2024. The California State Assembly honored the university with a floor resolution acknowledging its efforts to boost Black enrollment and graduation rates. Sacramento State enrolls more Black and African American students than any other university in the CSU system, with approximately 6% of its student population, or close to 2,000 students, identifying as Black.

Under the leadership of President Dr. Luke Wood, Sacramento State has launched several initiatives to support Black student success, including the nation's first Black Honors College, which welcomed its inaugural class in the Fall 2024 semester. The Black Honors College offers high-achieving students a comprehensive curriculum focusing on the Black and African American experience.

Social and Societal Implications

The establishment of the BSI designation represents a significant step toward addressing educational disparities faced by Black students in California. By formally recognizing institutions that excel in supporting Black student success, the initiative aims to:

• Encourage other colleges and universities to implement similar programs and strategies.

• Provide prospective Black students with clear information about institutions committed to their success.

• Foster a more inclusive and equitable higher education landscape in California.

Senator Bradford highlighted the importance of this initiative, stating, "SB 1348 fills an important void by recognizing the commitment of California colleges and universities that are making significant investments in ending historic disparities that exist for Black students."

Comparative Context

While federal designations such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) exist, California does not have any institutions that meet these criteria. The BSI designation is unique in that it sets a lower threshold for Black student enrollment, making it more attainable for a broader range of institutions. This approach acknowledges the diverse demographics of California's higher education institutions and provides a framework for recognizing and supporting Black student success within this context.

Potential Themes for Further Exploration

1. Impact on Black Student Enrollment and Success: Investigate how the BSI designation influences Black student enrollment, retention, and graduation rates in California's colleges and universities.

2. Institutional Strategies for Achieving BSI Status: Examine the specific programs and initiatives implemented by institutions seeking BSI designation and their effectiveness in supporting Black students.

3. Comparative Analysis with Other Minority-Serving Institutions: Explore how the BSI designation compares to other minority-serving institution designations, such as Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) and Asian American and Native American Pacific Islander-Serving Institutions (AANAPISIs), in terms of criteria, benefits, and impact.

4. Student Perspectives and Experiences: Highlight the experiences of Black students at institutions with BSI designation, focusing on how these initiatives have affected their academic journeys and sense of belonging.

By delving into these themes, a comprehensive understanding of the BSI designation's implications and effectiveness can be developed, providing valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and students alike.