Key Idea:
In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, few initiatives stand out as profoundly impactful as Virginia Commonwealth University’s Developing Men of Color (DMC) program. Spearheaded by Dr. Carlton Goode, this transformative program is dedicated to fostering academic success, personal growth, and professional development among men of color. By addressing unique challenges and providing tailored support, DMC is shaping the leaders of tomorrow, and Dr. Goode’s visionary leadership is at the heart of this endeavor.
Key Players:
Dr. Carlton Goode, Assistant Director, First and Second Year Experiences for Men of Color at VCU
Thomas Chatman, Senior at VCU and Secondary Advisor of DMC
Matt Tessema, VCU and DMC Alumnus
Kaleb Brown, Freshman at VCU, and current student leader/participant of DMC
The Story
At the heart of the Developing Men of Color program lies a profound understanding of the systemic barriers and societal pressures that often hinder the success of young men from historically excluded backgrounds. By creating a supportive community, fostering academic excellence, and instilling a sense of cultural pride, all aligned with CCA’s Support Pillar of Transformation the program equips its participants with the tools to shatter stereotypes and defy expectations.
Dr. Carlton Goode, a seasoned educator and advocate for diversity and inclusion, has been instrumental in the development and success of the DMC program. With a rich background in education and a deep commitment to student success, he has dedicated his career to creating opportunities for young men from historically excluded backgrounds by recognizing the barriers that men of color face in higher education and maintaining a relentless drive to dismantle these obstacles.
Dr. Goode’s approach is holistic, emphasizing not only academic achievement but also the personal and professional development of his students. He believes that true empowerment comes from equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in all areas of life. This philosophy is woven into the fabric of the DMC program, making it a beacon of hope and a model for other institutions.
Matt Tessema, first generation college student and first generation American, specifically shared that his experiences with DMC at its infancy stages at VCU were positive and supportive. This organization provided him the space to feel safe and find community among other Black men. His participation within this organization not only provided a sense of belonging, it also gave him the structure to support his own goals and self-motivation. Matt shares that he learned the steps to become a leader and built confidence to make effective decisions for his future by being part of the DMC program.
The DMC program is designed to address the multifaceted challenges that men of color often encounter in higher education specifically at predominantly white institutions. These challenges range from academic and financial hurdles to social and cultural obstacles. To tackle these issues comprehensively, the program offers a wide array of resources and support systems, including:
- Mentorship and Counseling: At the core of DMC is a robust mentorship program that pairs students with experienced mentors who provide guidance, support, and encouragement. These mentors, often professionals and alumni, offer invaluable insights and help students navigate the complexities of college life and career planning. (Related CCA Strategy: 360° Coaching)
- Academic Support: Recognizing the importance of academic success, DMC provides tutoring, study groups, and workshops focused on essential skills such as time management, critical thinking, and effective communication. These resources help students excel in their coursework and build a strong academic foundation. (Related CCA Strategy: Active Academic Support)
- Leadership Development: DMC emphasizes the cultivation of leadership skills through workshops, seminars, and real-world experiences. Students are encouraged to take on leadership roles within the university and the broader community, fostering a sense of responsibility and empowerment. (Related CCA Pillar of Transformation: Purpose)
- Networking Opportunities: Building a strong professional network is crucial for career success. DMC facilitates connections with industry professionals, alumni, and potential employers through networking events, career fairs, and internships. These opportunities help students gain practical experience and expand their career horizons. (Related CCA Strategy: Career Exploration)
- Community Engagement: Understanding the value of giving back, DMC encourages students to engage in community service and outreach activities. This not only strengthens their connection to the community but also instills a sense of civic duty and social responsibility. (Related CCA Pillar of Transformation: Purpose)
Impact and Success Stories
The DMC program’s impact is evident in the success stories of its participants who have completed their degrees. Graduates of the program have gone on to achieve remarkable accomplishments in various fields, from academia and business to public service and the arts. Their achievements are a testament to the program’s effectiveness and the transformative power of Dr. Goode’s leadership. Thomas Chatman, a graduating Senior at VCU, shared that effective networking was a beneficial component to being a part of this organization. Gaining professional opportunities like internships and fulltime job offers, Thomas shared that being affiliated with DMC has prepared him for the next iteration of life. Serving in an advisory capacity also has given him additional insights into how to conduct himself in leadership positions and cultivate and display appropriate emotional intelligence when making decisions.
Looking Ahead: The Future of DMC
As the DMC program continues to evolve, Dr. Goode remains committed to expanding its reach and impact. Kaleb Brown, a current first-year undergraduate and DMC participant, shared that initiatives that involve guidance for dressing for success and utilizing LinkedIn for professional development have been pivotal to his own personal growth. The suit drive where partners and supporters of DMC make donations to aid the young men in the program to purchase suits is one such initiative that Kaleb is proud to share its success with the larger community. In addition to this initiative, Kaleb is equally excited about the reach to more mentoring opportunities in the local schools, activities with charitable organizations that support exceptional needs students, and recreational sports activities that he and others participating in DMC will engage in the near and upcoming future.
Additional short- and long-term plans for the future include increasing enrollment, enhancing support services, and forging new partnerships with organizations and institutions that share the program’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, community, and belonging.
In a world where equity and inclusion are more important than ever, the Developing Men of Color program stands as a beacon of hope and a model for others to follow. Through the tireless efforts of Dr. Carlton Goode and his team, men of color at Virginia Commonwealth University are not only overcoming obstacles but also paving the way for future generations.
Dr. Goode’s unwavering dedication and visionary leadership have created a legacy of empowerment, proving that with the right support and opportunities, there are no limits to what these young men can achieve. The DMC program is not just changing lives; it is shaping the future.
To read more about this program, please visit their website here.
To connect with Dr. Goode or learn how to implement similar programs on your campus, please connect with state or system’s CCA Strategy Director.
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