Berkeley City College President Releases December 2025 Report
On December 8, 2025, Berkeley City College (BCC) received official designation as a Black-Serving Institution (BSI) by the California BSI Governing Board. This recognition highlights the college’s commitment to enhancing Black student success and equity within higher education.
Key Initiatives for Black Student Success
The designation followed BCC’s application, submitted in June 2025, which included a comprehensive five-year strategic plan focused on four main strategies:
- Community-rooted outreach and enrollment efforts
- Scaling academic and wraparound support services
- Strategic resource allocation for sustainable impact
- Professional learning and institutional culture change
Alongside this plan, BCC introduced the A2Mend Program to its Society of Scholars Learning Communities. This program aims to enhance academic support by offering embedded counseling and identity-affirming events.
Zero-Cost Textbook Initiatives
At the same meeting, BCC highlighted its Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) program. In 2021, the college received $640,000 from the statewide ZTC program to reduce educational costs. Data from a Spring 2025 survey revealed that 62% of students considered textbook costs when enrolling in courses.
To date, 40% of lecture and lab sections at BCC are designated ZTC, with an additional 11% classified as low-cost. The college has implemented ZTC initiatives across 17 degree programs in various disciplines, ensuring that students have access to affordable educational resources.
Community Engagement and Events
On December 2, BCC hosted a Community Art Social, which engaged students and local community members in a creative celebration with music and collaborative art projects. The event fostered connections and allowed attendees to express themselves through art.
Retirement Celebration
On December 3, the BCC community celebrated the retirement of Allison Greene, a cherished library technician. After 11 years at BCC, Greene was recognized for her dedication and warmth towards students, leaving a lasting impact as she transitions to a new chapter in Georgia as a full-time grandmother.
Therapeutic Support During Finals
To alleviate stress during finals, therapy dogs visited BCC campus on December 3 and 4. This initiative encouraged students to engage with therapy animals, providing a comforting break from academic pressures.
Multimedia Art Showcase
On December 3, BCC organized a Multimedia Art Fall Showcase, displaying the work of students in visual storytelling and digital innovation. The event featured interactive contributions from students, including a game developed in Unreal Engine that follows a character’s adventure to find their lost cat.
Cooking Demonstrations for Student Support
On November 18, the Basic Needs Center collaboration with the Undocumented Community Resource Center led to a cooking demonstration featuring microwave-friendly recipes. This initiative aimed to support students’ food security while encouraging communal engagement.
These events and initiatives reflect BCC’s ongoing commitment to student success, community engagement, and the promotion of an inclusive academic environment, as highlighted in the President’s Report presented by Dr. Denise Richardson to the PCCD Board of Trustees on December 9, 2025.
