Sonoma State University

Male Success Initiaitve

Overview
The Male Success Initiative (MSI) at Sonoma State University is designed to strengthen the academic success, sense of belonging, and career readiness of male students of color. Recognizing that Black, Latinx, Native, Asian Pacific Islander, and other men of color often encounter structural barriers in higher education, MSI provides a community-based, culturally responsive approach that supports students’ holistic development.

MSI offers a supportive environment where men of color can be seen, heard, and connected to peers, mentors, and campus resources. Students build community, develop their professional identity, refine academic skills, and prepare for meaningful careers. The program centers mentorship, leadership development, and networking opportunities that help close equity gaps and improve retention and graduation rates.

Connection to the CSU Young Men of Color Initiative
MSI at Sonoma State is part of the broader CSU Young Men of Color Initiative, a systemwide effort focused on improving outcomes for men of color through evidence-based practices, campus collaboration, and student-centered programming. Guided by the Consortium’s commitment to belonging, cultural affirmation, and equity-driven success, SSU’s MSI integrates high-impact strategies such as intrusive advising, culturally relevant mentorship, identity-affirming spaces, and leadership pathways that empower students to thrive both academically and personally.

Purpose, Focus Areas, and Community Impact
MSI is a professional and community-building organization for anyone who identifies as a man and is committed to building confidence, community, connections, and career. Our goal is to help students graduate from Sonoma State University and successfully transition into meaningful careers.

Through MSI, students:

  • Build confidence and a strong sense of self

  • Develop meaningful peer and mentor relationships

  • Strengthen academic skills and habits for success

  • Explore career options and prepare for life after graduation

  • Engage in conversations about identity, community, and social responsibility

How MSI Supports Students

MSI creates spaces for students to learn more about themselves and the communities they live in through:

  • Community and Belonging

    • Weekly or bi-weekly meetings that foster brotherhood and connection

    • Community-building and “brotherhood” events

    • Identity-affirming spaces where students can be seen, heard, and valued

  • Academic and Career Readiness

    • Workshops on academic success, professional skills, and financial health

    • Support with goal setting, time management, and navigating campus resources

    • Connections to the Career Center, employers, and internship opportunities

  • Mentorship and Leadership Development

    • One-on-one advising and relational support from staff and peer leaders

    • Opportunities to serve in leadership roles within MSI

    • Guidance in developing purpose, voice, and leadership skills on and off campus

  • Campus and Community Engagement

    • Volunteer opportunities such as campus tours and student panels

    • Collaboration with campus partners and the broader SSU community

    • Participation in events like the CSU Young Men of Color (YMOC) Conference

On campus, MSI is supported by dedicated staff and peer leaders who guide participants through workshops, academic and career preparation, and community-building events, while fostering connection, accountability, and confidence. The program emphasizes relevance, purpose, and relationships, helping students grow academically, socially, professionally, and emotionally.

Program Highlights (2024–2025)

  • 8 MSI students graduated in Spring 2025

  • Average of 10 students per meeting

  • Spring 2025: 14 members, weekly meetings

  • Fall 2025: 15 members, bi-weekly meetings

  • Ongoing volunteer opportunities with the SSU community, including campus tours and panels

  • Participation in the Young Men of Color (YMOC) Conference in November

  • Workshop on Financial Health and other topics related to personal and professional success

Featured Student Story: Ernesto

Ernesto joined MSI while a student at Sonoma State University and used the program’s resources to grow academically and professionally. Through MSI and its partnership with the Career Center, he connected with Enterprise, a longstanding employer partner, and built a relationship with Casey, a recruiter.

After graduating from SSU, Ernesto was hired by Enterprise as a Management Trainee. He has since returned to campus to participate in career fairs, sharing his experience with current MSI students and helping them navigate their own paths from college to career. His story reflects MSI’s commitment to building community, creating opportunity, and supporting long-term success.

Get Involved

For more information or to get involved with the Male Success Initiative at Sonoma State University, please contact:

Chano Botello Torres
Interim Director, Project Rebound
[email protected]