Graduates of BASE in full regalia gather in St Ignatius Church.

Black Achievement Success and Engagement

The Black Achievement Success and Engagement (BASE) initiative provides a foundation for students to grow, learn, discover, and thrive.

By offering high-impact academic and extracurricular programs that center on the unique and yet varied experiences of students of African descent, BASE equips students with the knowledge, resources, skills, and support necessary to turn their dreams into reality.

Unlock Your Potential

At USF, gain access to resources, support, and opportunities designed for your success. Join a community of faculty and classmates who see you, hear you, challenge you, and encourage your growth.

Three students pose together, all wear shirts that read "Life. Liberty. And the pursuit of Blackness."

Black Scholars Program

The Black Scholars Program is a rigorous and competitive academic program, grounded in Jesuit values, that seeks to provide high-achieving Black students with the resources, skills, and support necessary to achieve personal and professional excellence.

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Black Resource Center

The Black Resource Center provides a safe, supportive space for undergraduate and graduate students of African descent to connect with each other to receive academic, spiritual, mentoring, and emotional support services.

Visit the Center

Marshall-Riley Living-Learning Community

The Marshall-Riley Living-Learning Community offers a fun and engaging learning environment for freshmen and sophomores interested in the historical, intellectual, and political traditions of Black Americans.

Discover the Community

Meet the Team

At USF, you'll find the support you need to succeed. BASE consists of dedicated faculty and staff ready to answer your questions. Take a leap and discover more.

BASE Leadership

USF's mission calls us to identify ways to alleviate the marginalization and isolation experienced by Black students and ensure their academic and co-curricular success. The Black Achievement Success and Engagement Program aims to do just that by building a more accessible, inclusive, and empowering campus for our Black students.”

Julie Orio Vice President, Student Life