Since the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to end race-conscious college admissions, there has been a noticeable decline in Black student enrollment at many selective universities this fall. This decline adds to the ongoing trend of decreasing Black postsecondary enrollment, which has fallen by nearly 30% across all U.S. colleges since 2010. As more states eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and services, and in the wake of a national conversation on racial injustice, our nation’s colleges and universities are becoming less diverse.
Despite these troubling national trends, California has taken a proactive step by enacting Senate Bill 1348, also known as the “Designation of California Black-Serving Institutions Act.” This new policy creates a state-level designation (BSI) to recognize public and independent colleges and universities in California where at least 10% or 1,500 students are Black. The BSI designation goes beyond just enrollment numbers; it requires institutions to provide essential services and resources to support Black students’ academic success and meet their basic needs.
This policy draws inspiration from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), which have a strong track record of graduating a significant percentage of Black engineers, lawyers, and judges in the United States. While most HBCUs are located in the South and are over 75 years old, the BSI designation offers newer institutions outside the South the opportunity to strengthen their commitment to serving diverse populations. By providing a state seal of approval and identifying colleges and universities for targeted financial support, the BSI designation can help institutions adapt to the changing demographics of today’s college students.
With a growing number of nontraditional, working, and military students pursuing higher education, institutions need to offer flexible schedules, stackable credentials, and comprehensive support services. The BSI designation could be a valuable tool for states beyond California to increase college access, improve completion rates, and build a more skilled and educated workforce to drive economic growth.
Recognizing Black-serving institutions is a crucial step toward reversing the decline in Black student enrollment and increasing access to higher education for historically underserved communities. By investing in institutions that support Black students and other underserved groups, states can foster stronger, more inclusive colleges and universities. This investment will not only benefit individual students but also contribute to a more talented and diverse workforce that can compete in today’s rapidly changing economy.
The BSI designation in California is a positive example of a policy that can make a significant impact on increasing diversity and equity in higher education. It is essential for states to continue to support initiatives that promote access and success for all students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Through these efforts, we can create a more inclusive and prosperous future for our society as a whole.