San Diego City College (SDCC) recently celebrated the soft opening of its new Black Resource Center in T-220 with a powerful and well-attended ceremony that brought together students, employees, and district leadership.
The event marked a significant milestone in the college’s continued commitment to equity, belonging, and student success. Attendees heard inspiring remarks from San Diego Community College District (SDCCD) Board of Trustee Mariah Jameson, SDCCD Chancellor Greg Smith, SDCC President Ricky Shabazz, Dr. Erin Charlens, who previously oversaw Umoja and now leads the Transfer Center, Black Resource Center Coordinator Dr. Josolyn Hill, and two City College students who shared personal reflections about their experiences on campus.
The Black Resource Center was created to support, uplift, and empower Black students while welcoming the entire campus community. The space offers academic, personal, and professional resources, including access to laptops and printing, scholarship and career information, mental health resources, and connections to campus programs. Designed to feel like home, the center includes a lounge area, quiet study space, culturally relevant books, and affirming messages throughout.
Dr. Hill, who leads the center in partnership with Counselor Dr. Nesha Savage, described the space as a village for students.
“This will be a village for our Black students,” Hill said. “A place where they can be their authentic selves and know they belong.”
The celebration reflected the collective effort of faculty, classified professionals, administrators, and students who helped bring the vision to life. The strong turnout underscored the campus community’s shared commitment to ensuring Black students are seen, valued, and supported.