Passing the Torch: Paul Carter's Farewell and Celebration
Last month marked a heartfelt milestone for the Black Scholars team, as we gathered to honor Paul Carter’s impactful last few days as the Assistant Director of the Black Resource Center at California State University, Long Beach. Surrounded by students and staff, we had the honor of celebrating Paul’s dedication and leadership within the Black community at Luna Bistro & Cafe in Long Beach. As Paul turns the page to a new chapter, his impact will follow in every student who finds support, every program that thrives, and every future leader who feels seen and valued because of his work. We wish Paul all the success and joy this next journey brings—and remind him that this is never goodbye, but simply, “see you later.”
The 2005 National Pan-Hellenic Council Reunion Committee commemorated their 20th anniversary by pledging and raising over $4,500 for the BRC, capping off their efforts with a yacht celebration at Rainbow Lagoon. As Paul steps into a new role with the Obama Foundation’s My Brother’s Keeper initiative, his legacy of building belonging, uplifting students, and creating pathways for future generations continues to inspire—proving that at The Beach, community and service go hand in hand. From NPHC 05’, “Huge thanks to Paul Carter, Darnell Lewis, and Dr. David Roman who helped the efforts we set last year. Go BEACH!”
Chantel Vault, chair of the NPHC 2005 Reunion Committee reflected on this success, “When I had the vision and desire to reconnect with my fellow 2005 NPHC initiates and create a weekend that honored our past and made an impact on the future. I couldn’t have imagined a greater outcome. I’m beyond proud of my committee and the community, including Mayor Rex Richardson who contributed and showed up to support. With our collective efforts we’ve raised nearly $5,000 and hopefully have set a standard for those who come after us. Each of our organizations are grounded in service, and what better way to celebrate 20 years than by serving our community and creating legacy.”
“Dear Black Scholars, Black Beach fam, and the incredible community that poured so much love and support into me, thank you.
This summer I joined the Obama Foundation to start a new job with My Brother’s Keeper.
As I step into a new role and turn the page to an exciting next chapter, I’m filled with deep gratitude. When I began as Assistant Director of the Black Resource Center in 2022, I had no idea just how many incredible people, moments, and milestones I’d get to be part of along the way. It was an honor to lead the Black Graduation Celebration for the past three years. One of my proudest moments was welcoming Long Beach’s first Black Mayor, Rex Richardson, as our keynote speaker in 2022, a true full-circle moment for the city and the culture. Bringing joy to students was always at the core of my work. From the Black History Month Cookout to the Black Excellence Experience, we made space for joy, and that joy built belonging. And the impact speaks for itself: a 20% increase in Black student enrollment.
Before I go, I’m proud to say we’ve grown the Catalyst for Change endowment to $1 million, ensuring students can continue serving their communities through scholarships and internships for years to come. And in my final week, I was honored to accept a $4,500 donation from alumni of the Class of ’05 to support the BRC’s future. What we do at the Beach matters, but the relationships we build with our community beyond the walls of campus only enhances what’s possible.
Couldn’t leave you empty-handed, BRC! This isn’t goodbye. It’s a “see you later.”
With deep love and gratitude,
Paul
