Mental Health/Mental Wellness
Prior to and certainly in the aftermath of a global pandemic, social unrest, and economic instability, mental health and wellness challenges are at the forefront of issues affecting Black and Latino males.In the U.S., men of color seeking mental health treatment face the twofold challenge of being “overlooked and underserved.” (Gurch, 2019). It’s imperative for higher education institutions to address these issues in ways that help Black and Latino males feel they belong, know they are supported, and learn how to thrive.
This track examines approaches and strategies to remedy mental health challenges and develop men of color who are confident, courageous, and prepared to contribute to their communities. We explore opportunities for advocacy at community, institutional, and legislative levels. We highlight helpful mental health resources for Black and Latino students.
Mentoring Track
Mentoring programs played vital roles in helping minority male students achieve their academic goals and ensuring they successfully matriculate and graduate.
In Student Engagement in Higher Education: Theoretical Perspectives and Practical Approaches for Diverse Populations, Harper & Quaye state, “Students who actively engaged in educationally purposeful activities and experiences inside and outside the classroom, are more likely than are their disengaged peers to persist through graduation.”
This track explores best practices for minority male mentoring programs. We examine effective models that assist, empower, and motivate Black and Latino male students to increase their academic success. Individuals, institutions, and organizations that have established successful programs related to access, persistence, retention, and graduation share their experiences.
Career Track
We are at an inflection point: a moment when the world of work is being fundamentally redefined and affected by all that we have been through. As we encounter drastic changes—both good and bad—our challenge is to discover what new professionals need to be truly happy and contribute meaningfully over the course of their careers. Satisfaction often relies on feeling valued, connected, and included.
This track introduces tools to support educational institutions in developing career paths that align with current and future labor market and business needs. We also explore knowledge and skill-oriented jobs, entrepreneurship and other innovative career paths in which Black and Latino males are usually underrepresented.