Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Scotty Highlander Mascot dancing with students on signing day

Black Thriving Initiative

 

 

Black Thriving Initiative (BTI) Committee

 

The University of California Office of the President (UCOP) launched the UC Black Thriving Initiative to advance Black life and success across the UC system by addressing structural inequities, elevating scholarship, and fostering a culture in which Black students, faculty, and staff can thrive.

At UC Riverside, the Black Thriving Initiative (BTI) Committee leads campus efforts to build a more inclusive and equitable environment for all. The committee’s core purpose is to facilitate collaboration among campus partners to strengthen institutional culture, enhance belonging, and ensure sustained support for the success and well-being of Black students, faculty, and staff. While the initiative centers the experiences of the Black community, its work is open to everyone and benefits the entire campus by advancing UCR’s collective capacity for inclusion, accountability, and excellence.

 

Current Projects and Goals

 

UC Riverside is currently preparing materials for California’s newly legislated Black Serving Institution (BSI) designation (SB 1348), which recognizes institutions that demonstrate a sustained commitment to supporting and advancing Black student success.

In addition, in alignment with UCOP’s systemwide expectations, UCR is developing its own Black Thriving Strategic Plan. Planning efforts are underway, with ongoing conversations about how best to structure and align the campus plan with the broader UC goals while reflecting UCR’s unique strengths, priorities, and community partnerships.

 

Past Projects and Accomplishments

 

UC Riverside has undertaken a range of institutional efforts to strengthen its support for Black and African American students and advance Black student success. These efforts have included investments in student support and engagement, culturally affirming programs and spaces, academic and co-curricular initiatives, and cross-campus partnerships that have helped establish a strong foundation for UCR’s continued commitment to serving Black students.

These accomplishments also provided the foundation for UCR’s pursuit of California’s Black-Serving Institution (BSI) designation under SB 1348. The designation recognizes institutions that demonstrate a sustained commitment to supporting and advancing Black student success. UCR’s BSI application documents the breadth of this work, including existing programs, institutional investments, student outcomes, and planned strategies for strengthening Black student success.

The complete California Black-Serving Institution application submitted by UC Riverside is provided in the accompanying PDF.

 

Membership:

 

Committee Co-Chairs:

  • Jamal Myrick, Director of African Student Programs
  • Myisha Cherry, Associate Professor of Philosophy

 

Committee Members:

  • Anthony Jerry, Department Chair of the Department of Black Study & Associate Professor

  • Brian Haynes, Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs

  • Desmond Harvey, Academic Advisor in the BCOE Dean's Office

  • Devin Williams, Graduate Student Representative

  • Harley Clifton, Project Policy & Data Coordinator for the Office of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

  • Justin Grayson, Student Affairs Director of Marketing and Communications

  • Katina Napper, Assistant Vice Provost for Academic Personnel

  • Mariam Lam, Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

  • Paige Mejia, Interim Financial and Administrative Officer

  • Raquel Rall, Associate Dean of Strategic Initiatives, Associate Professor

  • Shalaurey Jones-Consalvo, Strategic Initiatives and Special Projects Manager

  • Tanis Gaines, Graduate Student Representative

  • Trinity Thornton, Undergraduate Student Representative

  • Victorino Moreira, Academic Student Success Manager

  • William Pruitt, Assistant Professor in Ethnic Studies

  • Yvette Hayes, Academic Advisor in the School of Education

UCR BSI Application

UCR Black Serving Institution Application
You Belong at UCR

All programs, services, and events offered here are open to everyone, consistent with federal and state law and the University of California’s nondiscrimination policies. Whether you’re seeking support, joining a community, or participating in campus life, every effort is made to ensure your experience is inclusive, respectful, and accessible, regardless of background or identity.

Visit the following links to learn more: UC Nondiscrimination Statement, UC Anti-Discrimination Policy.