In this episode we talk about all things Black Serving Institution (BSI), a new designation in California that creates a pathway for public and private colleges and universities to commit resources to advance the success of Black students. The designation requires campuses to demonstrate programs dedicated to Black student success, such as African-American studies and affinity spaces, as well as a track record of strong Black retention, transfer, and graduation rates. Dr. Keith Curry, president of Compton College, joins the conversation and tells us about how his freedom dream to create a BSI designation became reality. We discuss the ways BSIs can embrace servingness, the importance of upfront accountability and strategic planning compared to federal enrollment-based designations, and strategies for truly serving Black students rather than just enrolling them. We also highlight Compton College’s comprehensive approach to supporting all students' basic needs, including a housing project underway, another freedom dream becoming a reality for Dr. Curry. In this “riff” (as Dr. Curry uses) we talk about cross-racial collaboration and solidarity, as well as building relationships with external partners like donors, legislators, and the community to advance Black student success. This episode is for all our HSI, BSI, AANAPISI, and multi-designated listeners.

Guest:

Keith Curry (he, him)

President, Compton College

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/keith-curry-7285b46

Website: https://iamkeithcurry.org/

Show notes:

• New California bill seeks crucial funding for Black students
• California community college leader urges funding for Black-Serving Institutions grant program after bill stalls
• California bill would create ‘Black-Serving Institution’ designation
• Black California students want more support. A new law names colleges that serve them best
• SB 1348: Postsecondary education: Designation of California Black-Serving Institutions
• https://www.theeduledger.com/from-the-magazine/article/15747360/defining-servingness-at-blackserving-institutions

APA Citation:

Garcia, G. A. (Host). (2026, February 15). Dr. Keith Curry’s Freedom Dream: Becoming Black Serving Institutions (No.703) [Audio podcast episode]. In ¿Qué pasa, HSIs?.