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If we establish a hub for supporting Black undergraduate and graduate students at Loyola University Chicago, then we will be able to ensure structural change in practices that impact Black students that protect, mentor, provide access to resources, and ongoing support for navigating the campus environment, which will result in increased reports of belonging and connectedness.

Specific activities to be implemented: 

  • OBSS locations will be identified on all Loyola campuses
  • An OBSS director and supporting positions will be hired
  • A dedicated OBSS website will be developed to inform and encourage students
  • Collaborations with Advancement will be pursued to secure financial support
  • Grant opportunities will be identified and pursued
  • Coordination with the Wellness Center and Student Success offices will be established to offer expanded support and extended orientations to Black students

Proposed outcomes (over the next 5 years):  

  • Increased awareness among faculty and staff of Black student needs, policy shifts needed to support them, issues related to retention and graduation rates, and resources relating to learning and student success
  • Increased reports of belonging among Black students according to the student climate survey
  • Increased retention among Black students in undergraduate and graduate programs
  • Increased opportunities for Black leadership and access to career services
  • Increasing the four- and six-year graduation rates for Black undergraduate students
  • Increasing the three-six month hiring rate for Black students after graduation

 

Many thanks to the Black Student Experience Taskforce who created the proposal for the Office and for their effort and dedication to realizing racial justice at Loyola and abroad:
  • Shay Collins (Student Diversity & Multicultural Affairs)
  • Paige Gardner (Dean of Students Office)
  • Joyce Knight (College of Arts and Sciences)
  • Chris Manning (Provost Office)
  • Demetri Morgan (School of Education)
  • Sheila McMullan (Provost Office)
  • Patrick Nwankpa (Undergraduate Class of 2023)
  • Jessica Payne (Student Academic Services)
  • Elise Purnsley (Undergraduate Class of 2021)
  • LaShaunda Reese (PhD Candidate Class of 2023)
  • Shykira Richards (Alumna Class of 2012)
  • Will Rodriguez (Dean of Students Office)
  • Cynthia Stewart (Parkinson School)
  • Taylor Thomas (Undergraduate Class of 2021)
  • Ashley Williams (Chair, Student Academic Services)
 

 

Progress

  1. Outline Goals
  2. Short-term goals
  3. Long-term goals