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.

 

Membership:

 

Committee Co-Chairs:

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

 

Committee Members:

  • Brian Haynes, Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs

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

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

  • Katina Napper, Assistant Vice Provost for Academic Personnel

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

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

  • Roderick Smith, Manager of Student Affairs in the BCOE Dean's Office

  • Ronald Whitenhill, Associate Director of Recruitment for Undergraduate Admissions

  • Victorino Moreira, Black Student Success Coordinator

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.