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Statement of the Problem
The problem that this research study addressed is the extremely low retention rates
and persistence of African American male students in community colleges. The focus of this
study was on how the experiences of the African American male community college student
influence persistence. The literature, though limited, documents probably the small graduation
rates of African American male students in higher education and colleges specifically. When
examining statistical data for African American male students in two year institutions, these
students have the lowest level attainment rate when comparing the enrollment to degree
attainment ratio.
Prior research on African American male students in community colleges focuses on
the usual factors influencing persistence. Student characteristics, general campus
environment, excellent retention efforts, and external factors are the standard variables examined
by researchers. This research study sought to explore in greater depth the experiences of
African American male students in community colleges and to discover their own stories.
Initiatives
Institutions of higher education provide appropriate experiences to students that will provide relevant experiences for males that will promise academic achievement, professional and social progress create opportunities for leadership and student life engagement.
Learning/Persistence
Leadership
Social Justice Issues
Community Involvement
Cultural and spiritual Awareness
Retention
The retention efforts are supported by two of the four BMI peer educators serving as tutors in our Academic Success Center. This year, the tutors received requests from 70 percent of the males in the Academic Success Center. Another strategy that is impacting male retention is the Early Alert program which serves to help identify students who need academic intervention.
Engagements
Our central goal is to engage 50 percent of the males enrolled on campus in an activity or event. In 2010 the goal was reached, and the participation was exactly 50 percent. In 2011, the rate increased to nearly 75 percent.