Men of Color Initiative
The MOC Initiative prioritizes educational success and well-being for men of color. It was created as part of an initiative to increase graduation rates of identifying men of color at the University of Arizona. Our program focuses on exploring the concepts of gender, race, power, and privilege and the influence they have on the experiences of men of color in college. We engage students through various programs and advising at all of the cultural and resource centers.
The Cohort Experience
Thrive Center developed a cohort experience for first-year students who self-identify as male and as a person of color (African American, Afro-Latino, American Indian, Asian American, Black, Caribbean-American, Chicano, Desi American, Hispanic, Indigenous, Latino, Native American, Pacific Islander, Southwest Asian and North African (SWANA), etc.). The cohort explores the ways in which these identities affect their academic, personal, and social experience. The cohort provides a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment for male-identified students of color to explore the intersection of race and gender and racially oppressive experiences, strengthen their self-perception through activities and discussion, and help navigate academic and social experiences on campus and beyond.
Connection & Community
Connect with other men of color at UArizona who have shared experiences in life and on campus.
Drop-in Support
Waun Smith is the main contact for our Men of Color Initiative. He is a professional staff member passionate about supporting diverse groups of students on campus. Waun is dedicated to increasing the retention and persistence of Men of Color on campus. He is available for one-on-one meetings to assist students through their college experience.
Waun Smith
Senior Coordinator,
Men of Color Initiatives
Highlights
2022-2023 Cohort
- 96% first-to-second year retention rate
- Average ending GPA of 3.23
2023-2024 Cohort
- 100% fall to spring retention rate
- Average ending GPA of 3.11
Interest Form
Thrive Center is recruiting first-year students for a men of color cohort program in which you can receive a stipend for participating! The goal of this program is to retain more men of color students at the University of Arizona. The program will include weekly dinner meetings (food provided), group study halls, socials, and community building with other male identified students of color.