Since 2011 the Men of Color Student Leadership Institute (MOCSLI) Program has been a cornerstone for Presidents’ Roundtable (PRT) as a proactive and innovative strategy to engage and increase the success rate of minority males in higher education. The MOCSLI attracts community college students of color from across the nation. Presenters from across the states volunteer their time and knowledge to help students gain more confidence in their academic ability to achieve their educational and personal goals.
Students are selected to participate in the institute based on goals and aspirations, educational accomplishments, leadership ability and academic progress. More than 440 students have participated in the PRT – MOCSLI over the past 11 program years. There were 46 students selected to attend the 2022 MOCSLI.
The Institute covers topics that are identified as critical to the success of men of color as they strive for educational success. The topics include: Life Transition and Global Mindset; Education, Skills, Credentials, Community and Civic Engagement; and Human and Technical Skills. This year, workshop presenters included Dr. Roosevelt Charles, Dean of Counseling and Student Success at Foothill College; Mr. Ron McCullough, Instructor of Communication at Hillsborough Community College and Mr. Terrell Tigner, Dean of Student Development and Enrollment at Metropolitan Community College. The Opening program highlighted keynote speaker Mr. Carlos Carter, a native Pittsburgher and President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Pittsburgh.
As we continue to face lingering challenges of the pandemic and the ongoing cry for social justice many participates expressed their words of wisdom and shared their thoughts to address the issues in the context of achieving a higher education.
In addition to the student track, the Institute provides a track for advisors. Eighteen advisors attended this year’s MOCSLI program. Advisor sessions included: Leadership Development – Building a Bridge to an Executive/Senior Leadership Position facilitated by Dr. Quintin Bullock, President of the Community College of Allegheny County; Career Planning and Development presented by Dr. Charlene Newkirk, Southeast Region President at the Community College of Allegheny County; and Insights on Public and Private Company Board Service: What, How, and Why facilitated by Mr. David Motley, General Partner with BTN Ventures.
Lastly, MOCSLI students and advisors had the great fortune to attend a number of cultural events in the city of Pittsburgh. The Cultural Event and Social activities included a tour of the Moonshot Museum, Acrisure Stadium and Steelers Souvenir Shop, participants also attended the University of Pittsburgh homecoming football game. We are grateful for the leadership of Dr. Quintin Bullock for serving as the Dean of the MOCSLI and providing a great learning experience for all.