Retention rates dominate BSA goals, intent
By Genevieve Schlosser
schlosse@mscd.edu

   The Black Student Alliance has had problems with retention rates since its inception in 1992, an issue tied to the overall problem of keeping minority students at Metro.
   “ High school programs were not successful in preparing us for college,” said Dana Allen, BSA vice president.
   The main goals of the BSA are to create a close community for black students on campus and to encourage and support academic success. They try to foster relations between students and faculty to help students succeed. They also want to create a social network. To that end, the organization tries to hold fun events on campus, some aimed at everyone.
   Allen, herself, had a hard time her first year in school. She didn’t take it very seriously. Getting involved with the BSA helped her invest more in her education.
   “ If you’re doing something to help the campus your drive is higher,” she said.
   According to the Metro Equity Scorecard that was recently released, the percentage of black students required to take remedial courses at CCD before joining regular classes at Metro is higher than any other ethnic group on campus. The BSA is working on setting up a mentoring program for local middle and high schools to try and help students become better prepared for college.
   According to Allen, club President Danielle Kelly is responsible for getting the BSA on track this year.
   As a result, they have had several successful events on campus this school year, beginning with a “Welcome Back Luau” for the whole campus. They also had a very successful Kwanzaa party for black students, and they sold roses and homemade cards for Valentine’s Day. Proceeds from these events will go to fund future events.