Feb 11, 2025 Story by: Editor
California is considering a $75 million competitive grant program aimed at supporting underserved Black and African American students, along with other disadvantaged student groups, under a new proposal introduced in the state Assembly this week.
On Tuesday, Assemblymember Mike Gipson introduced Assembly Bill 335, which seeks to establish the Designation of California Black-Serving Institutions Grant Program. This initiative builds upon Senate Bill 1348, which was signed into law in the fall and created a new designation for California colleges and universities that demonstrate excellence in serving Black students.
Under the proposed bill, schools within the University of California (UC), California State University (CSU), and California Community College systems, as well as independent higher education institutions, would be eligible to apply for the grants. The California State University Statewide Central Office for the Advancement of Black Excellence, housed at Sacramento State University, would be responsible for developing the application process. Additionally, the bill proposes a governing board to review and approve grant applications.
The legislation requests $75 million from the state’s general fund, allocating $25 million to California State University campuses and $50 million to community college districts. The bill also allows for additional funding through donations, including contributions from private entities.
Sacramento State became the first university in California to receive a Black-serving institution designation from the Legislature in June while lawmakers were reviewing Senate Bill 1348. Source: ED Source
