Foreword

Dear Merced College Colleagues,

As we celebrate Black History Month, we are presented with an invaluable opportunity to recognize the legacy, culture, and achievements of Black Americans and reflect on the profound impact they have made in shaping our society. We are proud to honor the voices, stories, and contributions that illuminate our nation’s history while also recommitting ourselves to the principles of equity, inclusion and opportunity.

At Merced College, our mission is deeply rooted in fostering a community where every student feels seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. We offer programs such as Umoja and A2MEND, which provide invaluable mentorship and guidance for Black students, and we support student-led groups like the Black Student Union, which continues to cultivate a sense of belonging through events, advocacy, and engagement.

These efforts are a testament to the dedication of our faculty, staff, and administrators who work tirelessly to ensure all students have the resources they need to thrive.

This issue of the Blue Devil’s Advocate shines a spotlight on the people and programs that bring this mission to life. From programs and groups like Umoja, A2MEND, and the BSU to the dedicated individuals at Merced College who champion student success every day, these pages capture the heart of what makes our community so special.

We are also proud to showcase the inspiring journey of Rebecca Morris, a former Blue Devil who excelled on the basketball court and now serves as a licensed clinical social worker in Sacramento, and Ray Davenport, a passionate supporter of our CalWORKs students at the Los Banos Campus.

Throughout February, events and programming across our campuses will provide opportunities to celebrate, learn, and connect. These gatherings not only honor the richness of Black culture but also remind us of the ongoing work we must do to create an environment where every member of our community feels they belong.

As you read this issue and participate in the month’s celebrations, I hope you will be inspired to reflect on how we can all contribute to this important work—not just during February, but throughout the year. Together, we can continue building a Merced College that truly welcomes and supports all students on their academic journeys.

Sincerely,