Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis Chaired First-Ever Meeting of California’s Governing Board for Black-Serving Institutions; 31 Campuses Approved for Initial Designation

SACRAMENTO, CA – On Friday, Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis chaired the inaugural meeting of California’s first-of-its-kind Governing Board for Black-Serving Institutions (BSI), launching a historic statewide effort to recognize campuses that excel in supporting and advancing Black student success.

Created by SB 1348 (Bradford, 2024), the BSI designation establishes California’s first formal framework to identify colleges and universities demonstrating meaningful progress in retention, graduation, representation, belonging, and closing equity gaps for Black students. During its first public meeting, the board approved 31 campuses statewide for initial designation: 2 University of California campuses, 3 California State University campuses, 25 California Community Colleges, and 1 private/independent institution.

Lieutenant Governor Kounalakis opened the meeting with remarks underscoring the program’s importance at a time when access to higher education and students of color face increasing national hostility.

“As students of color face growing attacks across the nation, California is choosing a different path—one rooted in partnership, accountability, and a shared commitment to our students. This board brings together exceptional leaders who are dedicated to advancing Black student success, recognizing institutions that are truly supporting their students, and challenging all campuses to uphold that standard of excellence.”

Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis

AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS

During the meeting, the board:

• Reviewed the statutory purpose of the BSI designation and the statewide framework across five domains: Mission & Leadership Commitment, Representation & Belonging, Accountability for Outcomes, Curricula & Co-Curricular Learning, and Support & Wellness.
• Considered and approved the final recommended slate of campuses for initial designation.
• Discussed bylaw provisions governing meeting procedures, voting, ethics, and public participation.
• Reviewed proposed 2026 meeting dates and future application cycles.

ABOUT THE OFFICE OF LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR:

Since taking office, Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis has championed California’s students, advocating for accessible, affordable, and quality higher education for all. She is the only person to serve on the governing boards of the University of California, the California State University, and the California Community Colleges. She also serves on the Calbright College Board of Trustees. California’s public higher education systems serve over 2.8 million students. Lieutenant Governor Kounalakis currently serves as Chair of the Board for the Designation of California Black Serving Institution program. The board is tasked with identifying California universities that excel in serving and providing academic resources for their Black students, a historically underrepresented population in higher education.
For more information about the Lieutenant Governor’s work on higher education, visit www.ltg.ca.gov.