The Ethnic Studies and Student Equity Division will serve as a central hub for programs that promote inclusion on campus, including the African American Male Education Network and Development, and the Men of Color Action Network, which will support the Men of Color Center.

“The Men of Color Center is going to be a safe space for our men of color here at Fullerton College,” said Marshall Johnson, the center’s special projects director. “We’ll connect students to resources, host workshops, and create a sense of belonging here on campus.”

A signature element of the center will be its barbershop talks, informal discussions modeled on the friendly atmosphere of a barbershop. These talks have been held over the past two years in classrooms and student spaces to invite students to discuss topics such as identity, masculinity, mental health, and cultural pride.

“Students come together to talk about life and share what’s on their minds, sometimes it’s light, sometimes it’s heavy, but it’s always natural,” said Dean of Social Sciences Dr. Jorge Gamboa.

The idea of barbershop talks was inspired by similar programs at Pasadena City College, where Fullerton College President Dr. Cynthia Olivo first introduced the concept. With funding from a $75,000 Takeoff grant from USC’s Race and Equity Center, Fullerton College has expanded this initiative to become a cornerstone of its student equity strategy.

In addition to conversation, the Men of Color Center aims to equip students with real-world skills. Upcoming partnerships with the business and communications departments will offer eight-week modules on kickstarting and marketing for small businesses.

The center will also provide academic workshops, peer mentorship programs and leadership development opportunities designed to help students achieve their academic and career goals. Johnson emphasized that the space will be student-centered, encouraging participants to take on leadership roles and help shape the center’s direction.

“We’re building this from the ground up,” Johnson said. “Students who get involved early will help lay the foundation for what this center becomes.”

The Men of Color Center will work closely with existing support programs such as Umoja, Rising Scholars, and APIDA Amplified to foster an inclusive community across campus. Gamboa remarked that this collaboration represents a broader institutional effort to ensure every student feels seen and supported.

“Our men of color come to campus facing unique challenges from balancing school, work, and family responsibilities,” Gamboa said. “This center is about meeting them where they are and helping them succeed.”