Black Student Success Committee gives students access to resources

Students showed up for food and prizes at the Black Student Success Committee (BSSC) Networking Reception, and they also got a chance to meet faculty members and learn about resources available at Austin Community College.

Students met at Eastview Campus on Sept 9, to take part in the event that targeted the success of African-American students at ACC.

"I've always heard the complaint against having a culture specific activity, but the culture we are dealing with needs attention," said newly appointed BSSC chair, Keithon Kerley. "Even if I was of a different race, and I saw this need, I would do whatever I could. I would offer whatever resource I could get my hands on. This isn't about exclusion, but inclusion."

According to Former BSSC chair Reed Peoples, organizers had a twofold mission in mind at the event. First, the BSSC wanted to help African-American ACC students understand what the college offers them in terms of resources. Second, they prepared a venue for students and faculty to meet and get to know one another

ACC accounting associate professor David Floyd kicked off the event with a speech about his own trials with obtaining an education while being impoverished.

"I know what it's like to eat Ramen noodles at night every night for thirty days," said Floyd.

He went on to tell about how he rose above his trials and that everyone can be the master of their own fate.

Peoples shared the plans of BSSC.

"The main goal and vision of BSSC is for the success of the African Americans at ACC and in their future with the workforce," said Peoples. "We want to make sure they know about all of the services that are provided to them for that success."

After the leaders were finished speaking, the students were invited to eat and visit the resource tables that lined the walls of the room. Students received a passport upon entry to the event. After obtaining a unique stamp at each resource table, they could submit their passport in the hopes of winning a prize.

"I like that everyone is meeting together and networking," said ACC student DeWayne Square.

Rio Grande counselor, Mae Thompson, pointed out how difficult it is to show students that there is help available to them.

"Our key challenge is trying to get students to take advantage of the resources we have," Thompson said.