ABOUT US - SERVICES & PROGRAMS

The mission of the Center for Black Cultural and Student Affairs (CBCSA) is to create an afrocentric, holistic learning environment, for academic, social and professional development, and civic engagement for all members of the USC community. CBCSA strives to develop an environment that encourages the intellectual, professional, as well as social and cultural growth of Black students entering and completing degree programs. The five major areas of focus include: Cultural and Community Awareness; Leadership; Professional Development; Social Enrichment; and Retention.

CORE PROGRAMS

African-Centered Leadership Academy - Grounded in principles of Afro-centricism, the purpose of ACLA is to provide an avenue for students to develop collective leadership styles with four main goals in mind: 1) to create a sense of community 2) to help students identify and cultivate their own leadership styles 3) to leave a legacy for African-American students 4) to serve as ambassadors for African-Centered leadership campus-wide. The annual retreat serves as a platform for CBCSA, Program Board and other departments to disseminate information to the leaders of Black clubs and organizations.

African American Honor Society - The purpose of the African American Honor Society is to promote high scholarship and excellence in service to the Black community. The society encourages an appreciation for scholarly work, the scholarly endeavor of others, and to recognize academic achievement. Eligible students must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.25, be a full time student in good standing with the university, and have completed 45 units. Transfer Students must have completed at least one full semester at USC in addition to the above requirements. Potential members must exemplify good character and exhibit leadership and service.

Academic Preparedness and Intervention - In order to ensure successful matriculation, the Center for Black Cultural and Student Affairs monitors the acdemic progress of all Black undergraduate students. Students who are experiencing academic difficulty are asked to meet with a member of the CBCSA staff for The mission of the Center for Black Cultural and Student Affairs (CBCSA) is to create an afrocentric, holistic learning environment, for academic, social and professional development, and civic engagement for all members of the USC community. CBCSA strives to develop an environment that encourages the intellectual, professional, as well as social and cultural growth of Black students entering and completing degree programs. The five major areas of focus include: Cultural and Community Awareness; Leadership; Professional Development; Social Enrichment; and Retention.

Academic counseling and exposure to various campus resources for academic support. The purpose of this program is to give students the tools necessary to successfully complete rigorous academic work.

Unity Through Community: Black and Latino New Student Welcome - CBCSA, in collaboration with El Centro Chicano, have created a welcome program for new
undergraduate, transfer and graduate students to allow them the opportunity to meet distinguished faculty and administrators. Additionally, the
program provides innovative academic and social workshops that orient new students to the intricacies and unique experiences that USC has to offer.

Diversity Career Workshop Series - CBCSA and the USC Career Center co-sponsor a career workshop that focuses on issues of diversity in the workplace and seeks to assists Black students in making a successful transition from USC to the workforce. Some of the issues addressed in the workshops include: networking; preparing a resume; effective interviewing techniques; and professional dress & etiquette.

Howard University Exchange Program - Despite the fact that Los Angeles is a major metropolitan city, it lacks a historically Black college or university. The Howard University Exchange Program gives students a chance to study and experience college life at a historically black college or university. Students have the option of spending one semester or a full academic year in the exchange program.

Somerville Place - Somerville Place, a residential community, was established in 1995. Named after John and Vada Somerville, this residential community
creates an environment where academic success, leadership, self-direction, and personal growth are nurtured. The five goals that all residents strive to
achieve are: spirituality, respect, retention, successful transitions, and an understanding and display of positive social values. The goals of Somerville Place aim to foster an understanding of and respect for the Black culture, while cultivating a sense of family and community.

SIGNATURE EVENTS

Black Welcome Week - This week is a collaborative effort between CBCSA, the Black Student Assembly (BSA), and Black student organizations. Several events are hosted during the first two weeks of the fall semester to introduce new and returning students to the multiple and diverse Black student organizations. These activities welcome Black students into the Trojan family while also being culturally and socially informative. The activities range from engaging students in civic and community involvement to indulging in cultural foods while socializing with students, faculty and staff.

Black Family Weekend - Held in conjunction with USC's Trojan Family Weekend, CBCSA and the Black Student Assembly invite students and their parents to an annual Soul Food Dinner on Friday evening. On Saturday, 3 hours prior to the USC football game, CBCSA will host a Family Tailgate Picnic. On Sunday, we wrap things up with the Family Worship Service and Brunch to which all USC students, family, friends, faculty, staff and alumni are invited.

Black History Month - The purpose of celebrating Black History Month at USC is to promote, preserve, interpret and disseminate information about Black life, history and culture to the University community. Some of last year's Black History Month programs included: The Black History Month Kickoff Rally; NPHC's Yard Show; "Black History on the Money," "Sickle Cell Awareness Blood Drive," "Invisible Children" documentary screening," the "Soulsa Night" spoken word event, and was capped off by the "Leap Year Formal."

African American Cultural Celebration (a.k.a. Black Graduation) - Bridging our past with our present, Black Graduation serves as a traditional “rites of passage” that recognizes ecognizes and affirms African American students who have completed a rigorous journey through academia at USC. This largely attended and highly anticipated event unites students, families, and friends through culture and achievement. An outstanding speaker is chosen each year who insights words of wisdom, encouragement and adoration to the audience allowing all participants to evaluate their life experiences and empowers them to reach all future endeavors. The ceremony is traditionally held on the Thursday evening before USC commencement, honoring undergraduate, graduate and professional school students.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES AND SERVICES

African American Resource Handbook - The handbook gives new USC students, faculty and staff valuable insight into Black culture in Los Angeles and USC. The handbook includes a list of USC Black faculty and staff members, information about student operated as well as professional Black clubs and organizations, places for leisure and entertainment in Los Angeles, and many other items of interest. It connects students to varying resources on and off campus.

Pre-College & Community Outreach - This program is targeted at the local youth, with the aim of providing insight into college life. Current Black USC students of varying backgrounds share their rich and varied college experiences with local youth via a panel discussion. The students answer questions that youth may have concerning college life.