Welcome to Black Student Success Centre

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 We Are.” Ubuntu emphasizes the importance of connection, community and collective empowerment and success.

Learn more about our approach

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.

Learn more about our logo

Our Programs and Services

Welcome to the Black Student Success Centre

The BSSC is McMaster’s dedicated hub for the academic, personal, and professional development of Black students.

Rooted in the spirit of Ubuntu, the Centre offers a vibrant, safe space where students can connect, learn, and thrive together.

What We Offer

- Holistic Support & Well‑Being
  • One-on-one check-ins with BSSC staff and student ambassadors to address academic, mental health, and transition needs.
  • Counselling and psychotherapy with culturally-informed practitioners—supporting identity, stress, and wellness.

- Academic & Career Development
  • Workshops, coaching, and peer mentorship programs to support both first-year and senior students.
  • Graduate school planning, career preparation, and post-graduate visioning support.
  • Black Faculty Office Hours fostering mentorship and community connection.

- Scholarships, Awards, Bursaries & Resource Navigation
  • Subscribe to our mailing list for weekly updates on financial aid, scholarship opportunities, and tools to help you navigate available resources with confidence.

- Outreach & Pre‑University Engagement
  • Partnering with 10+ local high schools and community organizations to offer tutoring, mentorship, and Black student outreach for grade 11 and 12 students.

- Events, Community & Celebration
  • Signature events including Black Student Welcome Week, Black Grad, and career panels with Black professionals.
  • Community-building spaces, inclusive student-led programming, and leadership opportunities.

Featured Initiatives

- GEAR UP 4 MAC – A week-long residential prep experience for incoming Black students.
- Annual Black Excellence Graduation – Honouring the achievements of McMaster’s Black graduates with pride and community.