“More Than a Workshop”: Perspectives from First-Generation and Low-Income Men of Color Participating in a Community College Men of Color Initiative

This study examined the experiences of first-generation and low-income men of color involved with a community college men of color initiative, focusing on the students’ perspective. The research was guided by two main questions: (a) What factors contribute to the participation of first-generation and low-income men of color with a community college men of color initiative? (b) How do community college men of color initiatives activate the assets of first-generation and low-income men of color to support their vertical transfer aspirations? A qualitative case study approach was employed, involving interviews with 10 Black and Latino men participating in the initiative. After the interviews were transcribed, they were analyzed using an in-vivo and higher-level coding process, using the participants’ words to identify themes. Students described how programming, active coaching and mentorship, and the relationships formed within the initiative significantly enriched their community college experiences and aspirations for vertical transfer. The initiative’s opportunities established a multilevel support system for students, which activated aspects of their community cultural wealth. The findings uncovered valuable insights into effectively engaging first-generation and low-income men of color in community college. They also shed light on the programmatic and individual practices that validate students’ experiences. These findings underscore the necessity for more community colleges to embrace similar practices to enhance the support provided to first-generation and low-income men of color on campus and strengthen their community college to four-year university vertical transfer pathways.