CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, LONG BEACH

BLACK SCHOLARS NEWSLETTER

February 26, 2026

The Black Scholars Newsletter shares dynamic, informative and empowering stories that uplift, encourage, and inspire our community.

Meet the Editors

Toi Glover

Meet Our President

Loren J. Blanchard

Meet our President Loren J. Blanchard. The California State University (CSU) Board of Trustees has appointed Loren J. Blanchard as the next president of Cal State Long Beach. He will assume the presidency on May 1. Blanchard currently serves as president of the University of Houston-Downtown. Blanchard’s distinguished career in higher education spans 35 years. As president of the University of Houston-Downtown for the past five years, he led the university through a comprehensive strategic plan implementation and tracking process; increased institutional funding through grants, foundation gifts and legislative appropriations at both state and federal levels; secured support for expansion of the campus; strengthened community relations; built strategic alliances and optimized student success through integrated initiatives.

Faculty Highlight

Darnell Lewis

By Toi Glover

Dr. Darnell Lewis, Director of the Office of Belonging and Inclusion, has been a beacon of positive change at Cal State Long Beach, inspiring and empowering students to pursue academic excellence with confidence and pride. In 2023, he joined the CSULB community, driven by his passion for mentoring students and providing the resources they need to succeed, a passion he carried with him from his previous role as an Assistant Director in the Office of Multicultural Student Services at Ferris State University in Michigan. What drew him to The Beach was the opportunity to cultivate a sense of belonging for students at a large-scale institution, a mission he embraced wholeheartedly. 

Student Highlight

Tyler Brazile

Welcome Beach Peeps, a fun and informative podcast by our CSULB Vice President of Student Affairs, Beth Lesen. She sits down with student Tyler Brazile for a lively, heartfelt conversation that captures the true spirit of The Beach. Tyler shares his journey as a CSULB student and highlights the many resources that make campus feel like home, from Housing and Residential Life to the Men’s Success Initiative, clubs, and organizations that help students find community and purpose.

Community Highlight

By Nila Hall

The Black Resource Center (BRC) was somewhere I decided to go to do homework. I was hesitant because there was no event happening; I simply wanted to be in the space and enjoy the liveliness of Black culture. When I arrived, I remember slowly opening the door and scanning the room for familiar faces that would make me feel more comfortable and less nervous. As soon as I looked up, I saw smiling faces, welcoming eyes, and people I recognized. From that day on, I was hooked on going to the BRC. The community that comes from being surrounded by people who understand you on a cultural level is truly fulfilling. 

The History of Black History Month

By Toi Glover

When February comes around, there’s a familiar sense of excitement and anticipation. February is Black History Month, a time when we honor the Black figures, movements, and milestones that helped shape a more equitable world for African Americans. Despite the celebrations, many people don’t know where Black History Month originated. When most people think of Black History Month, the first images that come to mind are soul food, dancing, and influential leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. But there is a deeper story behind this month and its impact. 

Black History Month Events

By Toi Glover

A place full of culture, liveliness, and community are the three words that describe the Black History Month Cookout. Students and faculty enjoyed fried chicken, sweet potatoes, beans, and macaroni and cheese while immersed in Black cultural music. Chatter filled the room, and the sense of togetherness was unmistakable. Clubs and organizations tabled to share the impact of their communities and the benefits they offer students. The Black History Month Cookout was a true testament to honor and be wrapped up in Black culture.

By Z'nya Spears

"Ashe!" The celebration began with a spark in fellowship and discussion of those who have lived among us, now as our ancestors. This year, the theme of "The Dream lives on" highlights the community and historical actions taken to carry on Dr. King's legacy. Cassy Butcher, a wellness educator, therapist and community organizer, spoke on the stories of resistance, hope, and the story of Martin Luther King’s dream. Her words inspired me to create my own dreams, especially in a time where community matters more now than ever. The tabling's included insightful information about the details of Martin Luther King Jr. that we would otherwise not learn about. The opportunity to speak with faculty members at the tabling's were very meaningful moments that I will continue to reflect on during Black History month.

By SaRai Sherman

Gracy was a formerly incarcerated Black transgender elder and activist who fought for the rights of trans women of color for over 40 years. The documentary explores how her organization TGIJP (Transgender, Gender-Variant & Intersex Justice Project), the first Black transgender-led organization of its kind, works to empower transgender women of color through political education. Trans women of color are disproportionately incarcerated often due to structural barriers that prevent access to housing, jobs, and education, which pushes them to outsource survival to the streets. TGIJP functions not only as an advocacy group but as a surrogate family. Many of the community members involved in TGIJP viewed Miss Major as a mother, as she provided love, safety, and support. Which is especially important for people who have been rejected by their biological families.  

By Toi Glover

Black in B.L.O.O.M. was an experience that amplified inner peace and love. Through deep breaths and honest reflection, everyone in the room poured into themselves, even in the presence of lingering emotions. Black in B.L.O.O.M. stands as a testament to Black excellence, an intentional space for breathing, learning, observing, owning our feelings, and mindfully moving forward.

Black Scholars Program

CSULB Events and Programs

Community Events and Programs

Scholarships