HBCU launching new black male student success initiative

Benedict College is launching a new HBCU initiative focused on Black male student success after receiving a $100,000 grant from The Boulé Foundation to support its newly established B.E.S.T. Leadership Institute.

The Columbia, South Carolina, institution announced the investment as Benedict College reaches a notable enrollment milestone: male students now make up the majority of its undergraduate population.

The B.E.S.T. Leadership Institute will focus on academic achievement, leadership development, career readiness and graduation outcomes. Its name represents Belonging, Educational Excellence, Service and Civic Responsibility, and Thoughtfulness Toward Others and the Campus.

“This investment represents far more than financial support. It is an investment in leadership, excellence, and the limitless potential of young Black men,” Benedict College President and CEO Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis said.

All incoming male students will participate in the program. Students will progress from B.E.S.T. Candidates during their early college years to B.E.S.T. Scholars, Leaders and Mentors before being recognized as B.E.S.T. Men at graduation.

The HBCU program will provide individualized academic success plans, financial-aid guidance, mentoring and early academic intervention. Black male students will also receive résumé and LinkedIn assistance, interview preparation, internship opportunities and networking access.

Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity members will participate as mentors, advisors, guest lecturers and professional connectors.

“The B.E.S.T. Leadership Institute reflects the very principles upon which Sigma Pi Phi and The Boule Foundation were founded: leadership, scholarship, achievement, and service,” Grand Sire Archon Jesse Tyson said.

Benedict College plans to make the initiative a permanent part of its student-success strategy. Beginning in its third year, the program is expected to become a dedicated line item in the college’s operating budget.

Graduates will also be encouraged to return as mentors, speakers, career connectors and donors, creating a continuing pipeline of support for future generations of Benedict College students.