Long Beach City College Earns National Equity Award Nomination

Long Beach City College Named a Finalist for National Award

Long Beach City College (LBCC) has achieved a prestigious milestone by being named as a finalist in the Awards of Excellence by the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). This accolade recognizes the college's unwavering commitment to cultivating an inclusive environment where equity and belonging are prioritized. Through innovative programs and dedicated student support services, LBCC stands as a model of excellence in higher education.

A Testament to Dedication and Compassion

Uduak-Joe Ntuk, President of the LBCC Board of Trustees, expressed immense gratitude toward AACC for this recognition. He emphasized that this achievement reflects the hard work and compassionate efforts of the entire LBCC community, including faculty, staff, and administration. Their collective commitment has earned LBCC the reputation of being the equity epicenter of Long Beach.

Transformative Changes Affecting Community

Dr. Mike Muñoz, the Superintendent-President of LBCC, shared his pride in the strides the college has made in enhancing student belonging, claiming it has increased from 50% to an impressive 92% in just two years. This striking improvement illustrates the effectiveness of LBCC's equity-centered initiatives and reveals their dedication to ensuring that every individual feels empowered in their educational journey.

Innovative Equity-Centered Initiatives

As a recognized Hispanic-Serving Institution, LBCC proudly supports a diverse student body that includes substantial populations of Black/African American and Asian Pacific Islander Desi students. The college has implemented a variety of initiatives aimed at fostering equity, including:

Public Art Initiatives

LBCC has established the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) Public Art Advisory Group. This group plays a crucial role in guiding the selection of public art that authentically reflects the diverse identities and cultures within the college community.

Cultural Heritage Celebrations

Hosting Cultural Heritage Month Celebrations is another vital initiative at LBCC. These events include career information panels, film screenings, and artistic activities to recognize and honor various communities such as Latina/o/x, Native American, Black/African American, and LGBTQIA+ populations.

Employee Support Groups

LBCC has revitalized existing employee groups such as the Black Faculty & Staff Association while also creating new groups for LGBTQIA+, Disabled, and Asian Pacific Islander Desi employees. These groups serve as essential support networks promoting professional development and advocacy.

Equitable Teaching Community

The Equitable Teaching Community program assists faculty in adopting inclusive teaching practices designed to cater to diverse learners. By equipping educators with the necessary tools, LBCC fosters a classroom environment that promotes equity.

Basic Needs Services Expansion

Recognizing the critical issue of housing insecurity, LBCC has significantly expanded its Basic Needs Services, introducing California's first Safe Parking program at a community college. This initiative offers overnight parking to support students who lack stable housing, along with resources tailored to enhance food and housing assistance.

Partnerships for Student Success

In collaboration with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, LBCC has initiated an on-campus afterschool program that not only provides crucial support to K-12 students but also increases childcare access for LBCC student parents. This partnership aims to bridge childcare gaps and bolster educational success for families.

A Nationally Recognized Commitment

The AACC's annual awards are designed to highlight promising practices among member colleges, bringing much-deserved national visibility to initiatives like those implemented by LBCC. The winners will be unveiled during the Awards of Excellence Gala at the AACC’s national conference, raising the anticipation surrounding LBCC’s impressive achievements.

About Long Beach City College

Long Beach City College comprises two campuses and serves over 35,000 students every semester. Its core mission is to prepare students for transfer to four-year institutions, help them enter the workforce, or develop their careers. LBCC is dedicated to promoting equitable learning and achievement, supporting workforce development, and providing high-quality educational programs. For additional information about LBCC, visit www.LBCC.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What recognition did Long Beach City College receive?

LBCC was named a finalist for the AACC's Awards of Excellence in Advancing Institutional Equity and Belonging.

How has student belonging improved at LBCC?

The sense of belonging among LBCC students increased from 50% to 92% in just two years through various equity initiatives.

What are some initiatives focused on equity at LBCC?

Initiatives include the DEIA Public Art Advisory Group, Cultural Heritage Celebrations, and the Equitable Teaching Community.

What support does LBCC offer for housing insecurity?

LBCC has introduced California's first Safe Parking program at a community college along with enhanced food and housing assistance services.

How does LBCC support K-12 students and parents?

Through a partnership with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Long Beach, LBCC provides an on-campus afterschool program that addresses childcare needs for LBCC student parents and K-12 students.

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