Welcome to the Black Student Success Centre (BSSC)!
Our Vision - What We Aspire To Be And Do
The Black Student Success Centre is dedicated to supporting and championing the holistic (academic, personal and professional) success and overall well-being of Black/African descent students and fostering a positive Black student and athlete experience. The Centre is a safe space where students can meet, share, socialize and access specialized support and services.
Our Purpose – Why We Exist
Black students across Canadian universities sometimes feel isolated on campuses and are less likely to access student support services. The BSSC exists to connect Black students to the programs, people, and resources that will nurture their academic and personal growth. Our programmes and services focus on building a sense of belonging and safety amongst McMaster’s Black students.
Our Values & Approach to Work
We are guided by Ubuntu, an ancient African philosophy. Translated from the Xhosa language, Ubuntu means “I am because you Are.” Ubuntu emphasizes the importance of connection, community and collective empowerment and success.
Our Logo & What it Communicates
Designed by Aaron Parry, McMaster Graduate Student
Black represents the rich diversity of our shared stories and points of connection – embracing and including us all, across our intersecting identities.
Our Programs and Services
Thank you to our partners in University Advancement, The Office of the Registrar, The Student Success Centre, and The Student Wellness Centre for their partnership. All programs and services are available to Black-identified students currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program of study
Currently, the services we provide include:
- Virtual and in-person General Check-in appointments (graduate and undergraduate) with Iyobosa, Faith Ogunkoya
- Virtual and in-person Counselling appointments (graduate and undergraduate) with Ola M. Kuforiji
- Virtual Black Faculty Office Hours with ACFAM (African Caribbean Faculty Association at McMaster)
- Virtual and in-person RO, Financial Aid Literacy & Coaching with Leon Cox
Black Student Success Centre Events
3rd Annual Black Excellence Graduation Celebration
SAVE THE DATE! The McMaster Black Student Success Centre is excited to announce the 3rd annual Black Excellence Graduation Celebration...
Black Applicant Meet & Greet Fall Preview, 2023
The Black Student Success Centre (BSSC) invites you to join us at the Black Applicant Meet & Greet on Saturday,...
Official Black Student Welcome 2023
The Black Student Success Centre (BSSC) champions the holistic success & overall well-being of Black students at McMaster. Save the...
Welcome Week and Back to MAC 2023
Back to Mac with the Black Student Success Centre (BSSC) McMaster University is committed to providing you and the incoming...
Black Student Wellness
Request Black Wellness counsellors
Join our Group Session:
“You Belong In the Room”
Black Student WellnessLearn more
Scholarships, Awards & Bursaries Support
- How to apply
- Help editing/writing/proof reading
- Understand application timelines
- Choosing the right references
Check-ins
Tell us how you are doing, navigating academic expectations, financial management, or the complexity of campus life.
Check-insBook now
