Men's Success Initiative
For many Black students at Cal State Long Beach, finding community, support, and resources can feel overwhelming, especially on such a large campus. However, programs like the Men’s Success Initiative are transforming what support looks like for Black students, even if many of these opportunities still fly under the radar. The Men’s Student Success Initiative (MSI) is one of the most impactful but often overlooked programs on campus. Designed to empower, guide, and support men of color, the initiative focuses on strengthening persistence, academic performance, and post-graduation success.
MSI centers its work around three major pillars: empowerment, challenging outdated ideas of masculinity, and building community. MSI prioritizes the academic, personal, and professional growth of men of color. The growth of these individuals is nurtured through opening a space for emotional awareness, teaching leadership skills, and shining light on vulnerability. The goal of MSI is to create a strong brotherhood that supports the retention and graduation of men of color.
Even though the program centers men of color, all students who support the mission are welcome to participate. What makes MSI unique is the sense of connection everyone shares, something that many students don’t find in classroom settings alone. The initiative offers mentoring, academic support, networking opportunities, and culturally relevant programming that connects directly to the lived experiences of Black male students navigating higher education.
The Men’s Success Initiative offers powerful ways to build community, succeed academically, and access long-term mentorship. It is crucial that men of color look to attending a MSI event because it can provide tons of opportunities. With more visibility, better communication, and stronger digital outreach, Black students at Cal State University Long Beach can navigate college with confidence, community, and a clear sense of support.
