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Black Empowerment Center

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Empowering Black Excellence at CRC

At Cosumnes River College, the Black Empowerment Center (BEC) serves as a culturally affirming home for Black students to thrive academically, personally, socially, and professionally. As a California-designated Black Serving Institution, CRC is committed to advancing Black student success through intentional programs, holistic support, leadership development, and community building.

The BEC brings together programs, services, mentorship, counseling, cultural engagement, and advocacy efforts centered on the experiences and aspirations of students of African descent.

All students interested in supporting and positively engaging the Black community are welcome!

Our Mission

The Black Empowerment Center cultivates a space where Black students are seen, supported, challenged and celebrated. Through culturally responsive programming, academic support, leadership opportunities, and community engagement, the BEC exists to foster belonging, achievement, and liberation.

The BEC serves as:

  • A cultural home space
  • A hub for Black student achievement
  • A place for mentorship and connection
  • A center for advocacy and empowerment
  • A bridge to transfer, career, and leadership opportunities

Programs and Initiatives

  • The Umoja Community/Umoja Diop Scholars program supports academic excellence through culturally responsive curriculum, counseling, mentorship, and community rooted in the experiences of the African diaspora.
  • A2MEND develops leadership, brotherhood, academic achievement, and professional growth for African American men and other men of color through mentorship and engagement opportunities.
  • Melanated Conversations creates brave spaces for dialogue, reflection, healing, identity exploration, and community conversations centered on Black women’s experiences.
  • BSI/BEC Programs - As a Black Serving Institution (BSI), CRC develops programming intentionally designed to increase Black student retention, persistence, completion, transfer, and overall wellness.
  • The Black History Month Committee coordinates annual educational, cultural, and celebratory programming that honors Black history, excellence, resistance, creativity, and achievement.
  • Black Student Union (BSU) - The BSU promotes the solidarity of Black students for defining and practicing Black culture and sharing economic opportunities. The BSU also represents Black students in political and community matters.

Appointments with a Black Student Success Counselor

Make a Video or Phone Appointment

Video or phone appointments can be scheduled up to two weeks in advance. Appointments fill up quickly, so plan ahead. A handful of same-day appointments may be available each day for urgent matters.

Appointments are scheduled during open office hours.

Zoom Video Appointment Requirements

  • A desktop or laptop computer works best. Smart phones and tablets may work, but are limited in what they can do.
  • A working webcam.
  • A working microphone.
  • Web browsers: Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari (desktop or iOS) required, or a smartphone with the Zoom app downloaded.

Make a Video/Phone Appointment

Make an In-Person Appointment

In-person counseling will be by appointment only. Walk-ins will not be served.

Important Information

  • Arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment time
  • Know your CRC student ID number

Los Rios COVID-19 Protocols

Mask Policy

Masks are strongly recommended but not required in all district facilities, regardless of vaccination status. Los Rios supports any student or employee's choice to continue wearing a mask if it makes them more comfortable.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement

The vaccine requirement has been lifted for all Los Rios students and employees.

For the safety of our students and employees, please do not come to campus if you are feeling ill. If you are displaying symptoms, and have an on-campus appointment, you will be given the option to participate in your appointment remotely, or to reschedule.

Please see COVID-19 Updates for more information.

Make an In-Person Appointment

Featured Services

Umoja Diop Scholars

The Umoja Diop Scholars program is a community of learners designed to support and increase academic success. The program is focused on African American and multicultural literature, history, and experiences.

Become an Umoja Scholar

A2MEND

A²MEND seeks to establish an affirming environment where African American male students and other men of color are able to thrive.

A2Mend

Celebration of Excellence and Achievement for Students of African Descent

The annual Celebration of Excellence & Achievement for Students of African Descent (COEA) recognizes students who are receiving degrees/certificates and/or transferring to four-year universities.

COEA Celebration

Transfer Pathway to HBCU

Learn about the Transfer Guarantee Pathway from CRC to one of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU).

Learn About the Transfer Pathway

Black Student Success Events

Check back soon for upcoming events.

Contact

crc-bec@crc.losrios.edu
(916) 691-7768

  • Tanisha Jenkins
    Black Student Success Counselor and Umoja Coordinator
  • Brianna James
    Black Student Support Specialist
  • Dr. Teresa Aldredge
    Counselor and Umoja Diop Founder
  • Dr. Brianna Ellis
    Dean of Student Engagement and Equity

Summer Hours

  • Monday to Thursday:
    9:00 am to 4:00 pm
  • Friday:
    Closed

Location

Library, L-112