Tuesday, April 06, 2010

The University of North Carolina Wilmington is partnering with Brunswick Community College to increase the graduation and retention rates of minority male students. At least 25 BCC students are expected to attend the UNCW Office of Admissions’ first-ever Minority Male Mentoring Project, which will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, April 8 in Education Building 162.

Funded through a grant from UNC General Administration, the program is designed to provide support for minority male students in community college, help them foster a relationship with UNCW, and be able to transition to a bachelor’s degree program at UNCW after completing their community college studies. Similar programs are taking place across the UNC system between universities and community colleges.

As part of the program, students attend retreats, participate in service activities and interact with faculty mentors. To kick off its first mentoring group, UNCW is hosting a campus visit day April 8, which will include student panels and information sessions led by staff members from the offices of admissions, financial aid and institutional diversity and inclusion. There will also be a workshop with the Career Center, a UNCW campus tour and lunch in Wagoner Dining Hall.

“We want the community college students who participate in this visit day to walk away from the day’s activities enlightened and informed about the numerous programs and services that UNCW has to offer,” said UNCW transfer coordinator Alicia Hardy.

Media are welcome to attend and cover this event—ops will be available for photos, video and interviews throughout the day. A detailed event schedule is available on request.

Media contact:
Dana Fischetti, media relations manager, 910.962.7259 or fischettid@uncw.edu