During an era of great change across the country, the North Orange County Community College District has continued its commitment to expand diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility and anti-racism (DEIAA) efforts as part of its educational mission.
February is celebrated as Black History Month, an annual observance of the achievements and contributions of African Americans to United States history and culture. At the February 11, 2025 Board of Trustees meeting, Resolution No. 24/25-08 was approved, stating: “the Board of Trustees of the North Orange County Community College District joins with the nation in affirming, recognizing and celebrating February as Black History Month by acknowledging the significant and impactful contributions of Black/African Americans to this nation, to our higher education community and to the North Orange County Community College District, and encourages its campuses and student organizations to promote historical and cultural awareness by featuring various programs, exhibits, and other relevant activities and by participating in events sponsored by local communities.”
African Diaspora Educational Summit in Ghana
Last year, the NOCCCD Board of Trustees invested in staff, faculty, and students who identify as part of the African Diaspora to go on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Ghana, Africa in conjunction with African American Male Education Network and Development (A²MEND) organization.
According to A²MEND, the second biennial All-African Diaspora Educational Summit (ADES) in Ghana was designed “to explore how African-centered education is a vital tool for empowering Black people globally. The summit provides a platform to address key questions: How can we most effectively implement an educational structure that centers the history, traditions, philosophy, and lived experiences of Black people? Who were we before they came?”
Over 25 participants from Cypress College, Fullerton College, and NOCE attended the Summit. A presentation was given to the NOCCCD Board of Trustees on November 12, 2024, which highlighted various trip experiences like a joyous welcome celebration with dancing and a naming ceremony that spiritually connected participants with their ancestors. It also included haunting experiences that put NOCCCD students, staff, and faculty in the footsteps of the victims of the slave trade in the preserved historical locations that these events happened.
Cypress College President Dr. Scott Thayer, who is a founding member of A²MEND, had this to say about the Summit: “Every one of the Ghana Fellows I have spoken with shared that the experience was both powerful and transformative. The faculty are especially eager to bring their perspectives into their classrooms and curriculum. I thank the Board of Trustees for their financial support and continued commitment to our various diverse communities.”
