Diversity and Opportunity Define Medgar Evers College’s Mission

New York, N.Y. – Nestled in the heart of Central Brooklyn, Medgar Evers College (MEC) stands as a pillar of academic excellence and social empowerment. Founded in 1970 as part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, the college is named after Medgar Wiley Evers, the slain civil rights activist whose legacy continues to inspire its mission of accessibility and community uplift. Website.

A College Rooted in History and Progress

Medgar Evers College was established in 1970 during a pivotal era of educational expansion aimed at serving underrepresented communities. Today, it enrolls over 7,000 undergraduate students, predominantly from African American (76%) and Hispanic (15%) backgrounds, reflecting its commitment to diversity and inclusion. The college’s motto, “We Create Success, One Student at a Time,” underscores its personalized approach to education, offering 24 baccalaureate and 9 associate degrees across four schools:

• School of Business (ACBSP-accredited, with programs in Public Administration and Entrepreneurship)
• School of Liberal Arts and Education (housing 45% of the student body)
• School of Science, Health, and Technology (featuring nursing and allied health pathways)
• School of Professional and Community Development (including workforce training)

Academic Distinctions and Community Impact

MEC’s award-winning faculty and specialized centers amplify its academic reach. Notable among them are:

• The Center for Black Literature, hosting the National Black Writers Conference.
• The DuBois Bunche Center for Public Policy, addressing urban social justice issues.
• The Male Development and Empowerment Center (MDEC) and Center for Women’s Development, providing targeted support.

The college’s 5-story science building, equipped with cutting-edge labs, and partnerships with institutions like SUNY Downstate Medical Center for health sciences transfers, highlight its investment in STEM education.

Despite a graduation rate of 11.81% (within six years), MEC’s open admissions policy ensures broad access, particularly for first-generation and non-traditional students.

Campus Life and Student Opportunities

Located steps from the Brooklyn Museum and Brooklyn Botanical Garden, MEC’s urban campus blends academia with cultural vibrancy. Student life thrives through:

• Clubs and organizations: Including the ADAFI student newspaper and chapters of the National Association of Black Accountants.
• Athletics: NCAA Division III teams (the Cougars) competing in basketball, soccer, and track.
• Experiential learning: Initiatives like the Entrepreneurship & Experiential Learning Lab foster real-world skills.

Challenges and Future Directions

While MEC celebrates milestones—such as nearby subway stations being renamed in its honor in 2020—it faces challenges like improving retention rates and expanding resources for its high proportion of part-time students. President Patricia Ramsey, a biologist and academic leader, continues to champion initiatives like the Honors Program and Study Abroad opportunities to elevate student outcomes.

A Legacy of Leadership

MEC’s alumni network includes Congresswoman Yvette Clarke and author Iyanla Vanzant, while past faculty members like Betty Shabazz (widow of Malcolm X) have left indelible marks on its ethos. As the college approaches its 55th anniversary, it remains a critical engine for socioeconomic mobility in Brooklyn, bridging academic rigor with community advocacy.

Medgar Evers College – Brooklyn’s Hub for Access and Excellence (April 2, 2025)

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News Tags: Medgar Evers College, CUNY, Brooklyn higher education,
minority-serving institutions, public colleges, STEM education, social justice,
academic diversity, student empowerment, urban campuses