Vice Chancellor/AD Martin Launches Campus Student Success Academy
8/26/2024 10:00:00 AM | Administration
Men of Color Academy (MoCA) aims to improve persistence and graduation rates for undergraduate male students of color
KANSAS CITY (Aug. 26, 2024) — Dr. Brandon Martin, Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics at Kansas City Athletics, has expanded his leadership role with a groundbreaking initiative designed to bolster the academic and personal success of male students of color. The Men of Color Academy (MoCA), a program launched under Martin's direction, is making significant strides in enhancing the university experience for its participants, as was recently featured by Inside Higher Ed.
"Persistence and baccalaureate degree completion are among the most pressing and complex issues in American higher education," Martin said. "MoCA provides an anti-deficit approach toward student success and academic achievement for this population of students. I'm thankful to Chancellor Agrawal for trusting in my leadership and direction of this vital campus initiative."
MoCA, a pioneering effort in fostering equity and success, is designed to support male students of color by providing a structured pathway to academic achievement and personal growth. By focusing on academic and career development, MoCA seeks to equip its members with the tools and support necessary to achieve their individual and professional goals.
Program Goals and Objectives include:
- Comprehensive Culture of Care
- Identity Development & Sense of Belonging
- Academic Excellence
- Empowerment & Personal Growth
- Persistence and Degree Completion
The academy's program structure includes a commitment of approximately five hours per week, encompassing monthly programming sessions, community service and intensive campus engagement. This approach ensures that students are not only engaged in their academic pursuits but are also contributing to the broader university community.
Martin, alongside program director JaVon Hill, have led MoCA to a 97% retention rate, as well as significant improvements in GPA and an increase in membership. Heading into the fall of 2024, MoCA is welcoming 20 new members to bring the total number of participants to 60, underscoring the program's effectiveness and positive impact.
"Hiring JaVon Hill as the Program Director of MoCA, has enhanced and elevated every facet of our program," Martin said. "JaVon is a tireless worker committed to the well-being and success of our students. I could not have a better teammate in this student success endeavor."
Martin's involvement in MoCA represents a significant expansion of his role beyond athletics, showcasing his commitment to holistic student development. For more information about the Men of Color Academy, click here.