EDUCATE. ELEVATE. podcast

In this episode, the EDUCATE. ELEVATE. podcast explores Credit for Prior Learning (CPL), a powerful program available through California’s community colleges. CPL recognizes the knowledge and skills students gain through work experience, military service, internships, professional training, and other real-world experiences, allowing eligible students to earn college credit for what they already kn...

Dive into one of the most exciting and fastest-growing career frontiers shaping California’s future: the Blue Economy. From underwater robotics and renewable marine energy to aquaculture and ocean restoration, this career path is creating real opportunities for California community college students.   Los Angeles County alone could see 100,000+ jobs by 2030, contributing $14 billion to the state e...

In this powerful and emotional episode, discover how hope, education, and second chances are transforming lives. Justice-impacted individuals often face overwhelming barriers—but California’s community colleges and the Rising Scholars Network are opening doors once thought closed. Serving nearly 20,000 students, both on campus and inside correctional facilities, this program is rewriting what’s po...

Hear how the Nandi Organization continues to enrich and empower Black women in the California Community Colleges system through its 3rd Annual Nandi Conference. Nandi is a powerful community where students, faculty, and leaders come together to be uplifted, supported, and inspired. The organization embraces the South African greeting sawubona—meaning “we see you”—and brings that spirit to life by...

In part two of this episode, we continue our deep dive into one of the most exciting shifts across the California Community Colleges: the rapid rise of artificial intelligence for students as a practical and powerful tool for everyday learning. Whether you are a current student, someone thinking about returning to school, or simply curious about how AI is reshaping education, this conversation off...

In part 1 of this episode, a powerhouse panel of California community college educators, experts, and students on the frontlines talk about how AI is changing the game. Moderated by Dr. Abdimalik Buul, together, they examine the opportunities and challenges of integrating AI into classrooms and communities, always with a focus on relevant cultural implications, and ensuring equity, access, and stu...

What if one application could change your future?   In this inspiring episode of EDUCATE. ELEVATE., we’re talking about the September 2nd Cal Grant deadline, and the importance of applying for financial aid for students enrolling in community college in the fall. Join us as we highlight the benefits of applying for the FAFSA or CADAA by the September 2nd priority deadline to receive the most aid p...

In this episode, we take you inside a very special event – the 18th Annual A²MEND Summit – bringing together over 1,300 community college students, faculty and leaders from across California. The African American Male Education Network and Development (A²MEND) organization helps students redefine their futures and find greater success in and out of the classroom. While the organization’s passion i...

Student Rights ensure equitable placement—meaning you can enroll directly in transfer-level English and math courses without the need for standardized placement tests. This change guarantees that all California community college students start with the courses they need to reach their degree or transfer goals—right from day one. You also have the right to tutoring and other support services design...

Hear how a new California Legislative Law, that went into effect on January 1, 2025, will allow Black students to identify colleges that are uniquely committed to their success in and out of the classroom. In part two of this special panel episode, hear once again from educational leaders Dr. Abdimalik Buul, Dr. Luke Wood, Dr. Tammeil Gilkerson, Pamela Haynes, and Joya Miller, on what this monumen...

Hear how a new California Legislative Law will allow Black students to identify colleges that are uniquely committed to their success in and out of the classroom. This special two-part panel episode discusses the new Black Serving Institution (BSI) designation that goes into effect in January 2025 and the impact it will have statewide.  Dr. Abdimalik Buul, Visiting Executive of Institution Equity,...

Hear how a groundbreaking program is changing lives for California college students who want to make a difference in the world around them. Through College Corps, students can earn up to $10,000 for their education and gain hands-on work experience that makes a difference. These students are tackling the biggest issues facing our state by working in their communities to tutor and mentor low-income...

Are you curious about Historically Black Colleges and Universities and how they could be part of your journey? Picture a place where you’re embraced by a powerful sense of community, where your dreams are nurtured with care, and where you have your own support team. That is the essence of HBCUs. Known for their small class sizes, dedicated mentors, and vibrant alumni networks, HBCUs open doors to...

Ready to unlock your future? In this episode, discover two life-changing programs that are reshaping the path to a 4-year university for community college students like you. With the ADT program “Associate Degree for Transfer”, you can seamlessly transfer to a CSU, HBCU, or private university in California. And with TAG, “Transfer Admission Guarantee”, you can secure admission to several UC campus...

Hear how one organization is making a significant impact in the lives of Black community college students. The Nandi Organization provides mentorship, scholarships, and professional development to help Black females succeed academically and beyond. Nandi is a powerful force for change and is dedicated to helping women achieve their goals. You CAN accomplish your dreams; you just need to know where...

For students raised in the foster care system, the inaccessibility of basic needs like food and housing, lack of support, financial instability, and academic challenges too often can stand in the way of students achieving their dreams through a positive higher education journey. The California Community Colleges system is facing this challenge head-on and is giving hope to foster students across t...

Part three of the season one finale focuses on the unique lens of this generation's students and how they view the Brown vs. Board of Education Supreme Court case, which ended legal segregation in public schools in 1954, and what is being done today to continue the work of empowering and uplifting all students regardless of their race or ethnicity.  Hear an honest and powerful discussion between c...

Part two of the three-episode, season one finale focuses on the Brown vs. Board of Education Supreme Court case, which ended legal segregation in public schools in 1954, and what is being done today to continue the work of empowering and uplifting all students, regardless of their race or ethnicity. In this episode, hear a powerful discussion among some of California's highest-ranking officials an...

The season one finale is comprised of a series of three episodes focused on the 70th anniversary of the Brown vs Board of Education Supreme Court decision, which declared segregation in public schools unconstitutional, breaking down barriers and opening doors for a new standard in American education.    In part one of the series, hear a powerful discussion among some of California's highest-rankin...

More than 200 Career Education degree and certificate programs offered at California's community colleges provide real-life, hands-on training with industry experts, in many fields that can offer opportunities to nearly double your earnings within three years. Learn how one expert inspires Black and African American students to find their passion and land the good-paying career of their dreams. An...

Unlock your potential with dual enrollment! If you are still in high school or earning your GED, dual enrollment offers a golden opportunity to earn college credits while still in high school or at an adult education school. In this episode, you'll hear from one of California's leading dual enrollment experts about how dual enrollment programs are creating new opportunities for Black students stat...

If you've ever wanted to know more about Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), or thought that attending one was out of reach, this is the episode for you. HBCUs provide a unique sense of community, culture, and support that help students thrive in and out of the classroom. Hear how one woman started at her local California community college and took the guaranteed transfer pathway...

No one should have to chase their dreams alone. Hear personal stories of how one special organization inspires Black men to succeed – in and out of the classroom – by providing mentors to guide every step of their journey. Programs like A2MEND, in partnership with California’s community colleges, are helping Black students break down barriers and find safe spaces on campus to build the community,...

Hear how students are breaking down myths and barriers to find the on-campus community, support, and connections they need to succeed through a unique organization, called Umoja. Umoja, meaning “unity” in Swahili, provides free access to student support services, counseling, scholarships, and most importantly a sense of belonging. Umoja has helped thousands of Black and African American students a...

Hear how a young man who left high school with a 0.9 GPA still found his way to UC Davis, while another student with a passion for advocacy shares why she believes California community colleges are a “cheat code” for success. Also hear a college president's remarkable story of determination as he refused to settle for "good enough," and his powerful challenge to students today to unlock their full...