Super Sunday connects Black churches to the power of a CSULB degree

By Andrew Edwards | Inclusive

Cal State Long Beach’s commitment to inclusivity will be at the forefront of its Super Sunday outreach activities. An annual tradition throughout the California State University system, Super Sunday is an occasion for CSU representatives to visit Black and African American congregations throughout the Golden State with the goal of encouraging parishioners and their loved ones to earn a degree from a CSU campus.

“Our annual Super Sunday outreach efforts are crucial to Cal State Long Beach, the CSU and the communities we serve,” CSULB President Jane Close Conoley said. “CSU Super Sunday is an effective way to share our story, help potential students understand that college is affordable, and convey that it is never too early to prepare for college – or too late to return."

This year’s Super Sunday is set for Feb. 25 and CSU leaders plan to visit more than 50 communities of faith to carry the message that a CSU degree can be accessible, affordable, and life changing. More than 3,800 African American students earned their undergraduate degrees in the 2022-23 academic year, according to the CSU, and African American students also earned more than 750 graduate degrees from CSU during the same timeframe.

Cal State Long Beach’s Super Sunday schedule:

  • 10 a.m. Feb. 25 at Antioch Church of Long Beach, 350 Pine Ave., Long Beach, with President Jane Close Conoley.
  • 10 a.m. Feb. 25 at The ROCK Christian Fellowship, Bethany Church, 2250 Clark Ave., Long Beach, with Vice President of Student Affairs Beth Lesen.
  • 10 a.m. Feb. 25 at Temple Baptist Church, 2825 E. 10th Street, Long Beach, with mathematics professor Kagba N. Suaray.
  • 10 a.m. March 3 at Brister Baptist Church, 1531 S. Long Beach Blvd., Compton, with Associate Vice President of Student Success and Engagement Daria Graham.

Beach students will join administrators and faculty addressing churchgoers at each of the Long Beach and Compton events. Campus advisors will also participate and be available after Sunday services at all four events to answer questions and provide information about campus programs.

“California State University's Super Sunday serves as one of the bridges of connection to our communities,” Graham said. “By meeting our communities where they are, our faculty, staff and students affirm our dedication to empowering prospective students through knowledge, forging pathways to success that transcend barriers, and strengthening individuals’ efforts for a bright future.  As we extend our reach beyond campus borders, we raise awareness of the accessible education options available at CSU Long Beach, tailored to meet the needs and aspirations of prospective students and their loved ones.”