A group photo of members from BFSA, Umoja, EOPS and BROTHERS
Students pose with Umoja coordinator Frederick Jones while playing board games
Students surround a girl jumping rope
Students and faculty members playing Janga

 

San Bernardino Valley College recently held its 3rd annual “Black 2 School Night,” a signature event dedicated to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for African American students. Held on September 25, the event celebrated the college’s commitment to student success by showcasing a variety of resources and support systems designed to help students thrive both academically and personally.

This year’s event, organized in partnership with the Black Faculty and Staff Association (BFSA), Umoja-Tumaini, EOPS, and BROTHERS (Brothers Reaching Out to Help Everyone Reach Success), offered an engaging evening filled with networking, mentorship, and community-building activities. The goal was to create a space where students, faculty, staff, and community members could connect, share experiences, and strengthen bonds in a collegial and welcoming atmosphere.

“It’s all about creating a sense of belonging,” said Keenan Giles, Vice President of BFSA. “We want our students to feel at home at Valley College, and ‘Black 2 School Night’ is a way to foster that environment—not just for students, but for faculty, staff, and the community as well.”

Attendees enjoyed a variety of activities that encouraged connection and camaraderie, such as jump rope, the card game UNO, and a lively game of Jenga that tested both dexterity and teamwork. The event also featured delicious food from local favorite “The Spirit of Texas BBQ,” adding a festive and inviting atmosphere to the evening.

The event built on the success of previous years, which had focused on promoting support programs aimed at increasing Black student success in higher education. This year, the focus expanded to further solidify relationships with the broader community and highlight the numerous opportunities available at SBVC to support student achievement.

“Black 2 School Night” is more than just an annual gathering; it is a reflection of SBVC’s ongoing commitment to embracing the values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Through this event and many others, the college aims to create a nurturing and empowering environment where all students can succeed and feel a genuine sense of community.

As SBVC continues to strengthen these bonds, events like “Black 2 School Night” serve as important reminders of the college’s dedication to supporting every student’s journey.