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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

Breaking Barriers: RBC’s Commitment to Inclusive Internships for Black Students

Breaking Barriers: RBC’s Commitment to Inclusive Internships for Black Students Event

Event Overview Event: Breaking Barriers: RBC’s Commitment to Inclusive Internships for Black StudentsDate & Time: Thursday, November 21st, 4:30 PM – 6:30...

Black Applicant Meet & Greet

Black Applicant Meet & Greet Event

Black Applicant Meet & GreetHosted by the Black Student Success Centre (BSSC)Date: Saturday, November 16, 2024Time: 2:30 PM – 4:00 PMLocation: Peter George...

Virtual Faculty Information Sessions

Virtual Faculty Information Sessions Event

Event Dates: Wednesday, October 30, Wednesday, November 6, & Wednesday, November 13Time: 4:00 PM – 6:30 PMTarget Audience: Prospective Black university applicantsDelivery: Virtually via...

Entrepreneurship Bootcamp

Entrepreneurship Bootcamp Event

Date: Tuesday, October 29th, 2024  Time: 2:00pm – 5:00pm  Location: The Hub Building, 4th Floor  Dress Code: Smart Casual  Food:...

An image of a Black hand above text of
An image of David Farrar shaking hands with a Black student
An image of three Black individuals