Green River College is set to enhance support for its students of color with the introduction of the African American Male Education Network & Development (A²MEND) program, marking the first time the initiative has expanded outside California. A²MEND is designed to improve retention and graduation rates for men of color by providing mentorship and culturally relevant resources.
GRC President Suzanne M. Johnson emphasized how this program aligns with the college's Equity-Centered Strategic Plan. “The practices and values under A²MEND are intentionally rooted in creating a BIPOC male educational model that uplifts BIPOC students and promotes their success. Through the campus’s commitment to being an anti-racist institution, we will leverage this to bring A²MEND to our campus."
GRC’s 2021-2026 Equity-Centered Strategic Plan and The Green River College Promise prioritize equity and social justice across all identities, and the launch of A²MEND represents a key step toward fulfilling these goals. The program focuses on addressing the specific needs of men of color, a group that has historically faced significant barriers to academic success.
A²MEND’s mentorship-driven model is designed to help African American men and other BIPOC students thrive both academically and personally. Dr. Erin Vines, the executive director of A²MEND, told Diverse that the issues Black males face in higher education spans across the country and that being able to extend their efforts nationwide has always been the goal, but funding hindered those efforts.
“When we select a school, we want to be sure that these institutions support the work and that they are going to support us trying to increase the success of Black males.”
According to President Johnson, A²MEND’s focus upon men of color will fill a vital gap within the College’s network of student equity support programs by providing targeted support for students that recognizes and responds to their unique needs.
The program will be a part of GRC’s ongoing efforts to ensure that every student, regardless of background or identity, has the support they need to succeed. With the launch of A²MEND, Green River College strengthens its position as a leader in equity-focused education, continually working toward a more inclusive future for all students.