How the Black Resource Center Supports and Inspires Students

San Diego State University introduced the Black Resource Center (BRC) in March 2018 to serve as a space for students, faculty and staff to congregate, collaborate and cultivate a unified sense of community.

The BRC, located at 5723 Lindo Paseo and founded through a student-led initiative, is the home of the Henrietta Goodwin Scholars Program. It promotes scholarship, foster leadership and assists students in their personal and professional growth.

We asked several students how the Black Resource Center has impacted their time at SDSU, and their responses can be found below.

Isaiah Hardy
Class Level: Graduating Senior
Major: Interdisciplinary Studies - Africana Studies, Economics, Psychology

"Ultimately, the BRC is a safe space for me. I have loved every second of it being here because it continues to serve as a home away from home! Every time I enter through those BRC doors, a wave of love bursts into my body. My most memorable moment would be its grand opening because I was fortunate enough to be a part of history. During this moment, the black love and joy spread amongst our souls like a wildfire. The programs and events put on by the center have also been salient to my experience. From movie nights in the lounge to the cupid shuffle in the backyard, the BRC has been amazing, and I am beyond grateful."

Ayesha Kosaka
Class Level: Graduating Senior
Major: Interdisciplinary Studies - Africana Studies, Economics, Psychology Minor: Creative Writing

"In my four years here at SDSU, working in the BRC has been one of the greatest highlights of my college experience, and seeing it grow since my sophomore year has made it all the more special to me. Having the opportunity to collaborate with the brightest minds of this institution has both inspired and pushed me to be the best version of myself and to live unapologetically. The amount of support I have received from my director, coordinator, and staff is unparalleled, and I am so grateful to have them by my side reigniting my fire whenever others try to blow it out. Despite many challenges, having my BRC family fighting alongside me made it all worthwhile."  

Tiana Loving
Class Level: Graduating Senior
Major: Political Science Minor: Communication and Cultural Proficiency

"In the past couple of years, I have used the Black Resource Center as a place to develop my leadership skills, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and contribute to my academic success. As an academic coach for the Henrietta Goodwin Scholars Program, the Black Resource Center has given me the opportunity to shape future black leaders of San Diego State University. The BRC has also allowed my organization, Campus Curlz, to further educate our students on the importance of embracing black beauty in a welcoming and positive space. I appreciate the Black Resource Center for its intentionality in inspiring and developing black students, as well as its dedication to the advancement and excellence of the black community. This center has significantly contributed to the unification of the black community on campus, and has given me the opportunity to create long lasting relationships. The BRC has equipped me with the necessary confidence and skills to succeed throughout my college career and beyond."

Larry Oldham
Class Level: Freshman, Henrietta Goodwin Scholar
Major: Political Science

"The BRC has made a positive impact in my studies and enhanced my educational experience by providing me with essential resources, guidance, mentorship and fellowship. There are so many terrific events that are created especially for black students. I can freely express myself and talk about my truth without feeling judged or awkward. I feel encouraged by the really great professors and support staff. Overall, the BRC gives me comfort and stability, which has impacted my confidence level in a positive way."  

Joy Moore
Class Level: Freshman, Henrietta Goodwin Scholar
Major: Journalism

"My experience in the Black Resource Center has been nothing short of amazing. To simply put it into one sentence isn’t even enough to describe what it means to me but if I had to I would say that it is my home away from home. It has allowed me to be me and grow not only as a student on this campus but as a black student.Without the BRC I would not have the opportunity to attend events dedicated to bettering me as a student or even participate in the Henrietta Goodwin Scholars Program. I have been able to lean on my brothers and sisters who are striving to obtain the same goal as me — to be black and educated."