Coastline College Earns Black-Serving Institution Designation

Fountain Valley, CA — Coastline College is proud to announce that it has officially been designated a Black-Serving Institution (BSI) under California’s new statewide framework established by SB 1348. This recognition affirms Coastline’s longstanding commitment to advancing Black student success, strengthening equity, and fostering belonging across its learning environments.

The BSI designation, granted by the state’s Black-Serving Institution Governing Board, acknowledges institutions that demonstrate not only significant Black student enrollment, but also a sustained and intentional commitment to providing high-quality academic support, culturally responsive services, and opportunities for achievement and leadership.

“This designation reflects the work Coastline has embraced for years: ensuring that every student has access to the resources, representation, and support necessary to thrive,” said President Vince Rodriguez. “We are honored to be recognized, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to creating equitable pathways to success.”

A Statewide Movement for Equity

California formally launched the BSI designation earlier this year, with state leaders including Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis and Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson championing the effort to recognize and strengthen institutions that meaningfully serve Black students. Under SB 1348, colleges may qualify by enrolling at least 1,500 Black students or having a student body that is at least 10% Black—combined with demonstrated, measurable support for Black student achievement.

Coastline’s inclusion in the inaugural cohort of BSIs underscores the college’s decades-long emphasis on removing barriers, expanding access, and elevating student voices, particularly within online and community-based learning environments.

Supporting Coastline’s Continued Work

The BSI Governing Board will share additional information and resources with participating institutions beginning in January, including expectations, opportunities for statewide collaboration, and guidance for leveraging the designation to enhance student support.

“This recognition not only acknowledges Coastline’s past work, we look forward to partnering with the state and with peer institutions to advance Black student success across California,” said President Rodriguez.

“As the Dean of Students and Umoja Coordinator, I look forward to Coastline's continued commitment to equity and Black students,” said Leighia Fleming, Dean of Students. “Through programs such as Umoja, we will continue to remove barriers and disrupt procedures to assist in ensuring Black student success; this is just the beginning of the college's dedication.”

 

A Milestone for Coastline and the Community

As a newly designated BSI, Coastline College joins a growing network of colleges and universities committed to supporting Black learners through data-informed practices, inclusive pedagogy, targeted resources, and community partnerships.

This achievement marks a significant step in Coastline’s continued work to ensure that every student, regardless of background or circumstance, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.