Berkeley City College designated Black-Serving Institution | Local Schools

Berkeley City College was designated a Black-Serving Institution by the state of California on Dec. 8, 2025. This designation recognizes colleges and universities that provide exceptional academic support to their Black and African American students.

All four schools in the Peralta Community College District, which includes BCC, have been awarded the designation. Institutions are eligible for the designation if at least 10% or 1,500 of their enrolled students identify as Black or African American, according to the application.

26% of BCC’s student population — more than 1800 students — identify as Black or African American as of Spring 2025.

“The overall designation really highlights the commitment to serving Black students, letting Black students know that we have shown not only our plans for the future, but the current work we’re doing is built for their success,” said BCC Dean of Counseling and Student Equity Raniyah Johnson. 

Institutions do not currently receive funding as part of the designation, though advocacy work is being done to change that, according to Johnson. In 2025, BCC was recognized as a California Community College Transfer Champion for Black Students, indicating that there was no gap in the percentage of Associate Degrees for Transfer awarded to Black students compared to the overall campus.

BCC’s application for the Black-Serving Institution designation lists Umoja — a learning community that provides counseling, mentorship programs and opportunities for leadership development — and A2Mend — which focuses on serving Black men — as current resources intended to support Black students. Both programs are funded through the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. 

BCC also offers a program that guarantees admission to more than 30 historically Black colleges and universities. HBCU admissions representatives visit BCC, where students can apply, receive admission and be awarded scholarships immediately.

Johnson shared that as dean of counseling and student equity, she is excited for the Black-Serving Institution designation to allow BCC to expand their services, as well as to hear from students what programs they see a need for.

“Having this designation allows us to really build out that sense of belonging and allow our students to shine in who they are. I like to tell faculty all the time that, yes, your students are coming to you, but they’re coming to you with stories and in fullness,” Johnson said. “Until we’re able to actually service all of who they are, I think we’re always going to fall short.”