On June 27, the Men of Color Action Network (MOCAN) Chapter Committee hosted a day-long retreat at California State University, Dominguez Hills that united current and incoming MOCAN Chapters across Southern California.

The retreat served as a space for collaboration, community building, and the exchange of proven strategies to better support men of color in higher education. Teaching and counseling faculty, academic deans, graduate students, and community college students came together from partner institutions to share ideas and strengthen their commitment to student success.

Representatives from established chapters at El Camino College, Pasadena City College, and Santa Monica College were joined by colleagues from new chapters set to launch in Fall 2025 at Fullerton College, Mt. San Antonio College, Rio Hondo College, Southwestern College, and West Los Angeles College.

A highlight of the day was an inspiring presentation by Dr. Jesse Enriquez, Associate Director of the Young Men of Color (YMOC) initiative, who shared insights into the lived experiences of men of color at community colleges. Dr. Enriquez emphasized the critical importance of developing campus programs grounded in data and evidence-based practices to create meaningful, lasting impact.

Participants spent the day engaging in thoughtful discussions about effective data collection, program structures, and cross-campus collaboration. By sharing best practices and aligning on common goals, both veteran and new chapters strengthened partnerships that will help grow and sustain the MOCAN network.

The retreat marked an important milestone in expanding MOCAN’s reach, equipping new chapters with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to launch successfully in the upcoming academic year.

As a Collaborative Impact Partner, MOCAN is closely aligned with our strategic goal to expand student access and success. The Collaborative Impact Program incubates, scales, and sustains creative endeavors to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for all Californians.

Learn more about our programs working to raise up underserved communities in higher education >