Connecting black students and allies at George Brown College
The Black Student Success Network (BSSN) is a community of Black students, faculty and staff dedicated to encouraging the success of Black students at George Brown and beyond. BSSN provides a safe space in which to meet, share, socialize and learn from Black community members and allies.
Get involved
It’s easy to join the BSSN! Sign up today and you'll be notified of upcoming events, opportunities, and ways for you to get involved both on and off campus.
Who we are
- About the BSSN
The Black Student Success Network (BSSN) is a student-driven initiative based on the following grounded pillars:
- Academic/career advising
- Information and referrals
- Social engagement
- Wellness initiatives
The BSSN was the result of college-wide research that showed a significant number of Black students at the School of Social and Community Services were leaving their programs early. Students were consulted and invited to share their experiences and provide solutions. Their input created the foundation of BSSN.
The network ran as a pilot project for the 2016-17 academic year for students in Social and Community Services programs. Throughout the year, we heard from other students across the college requesting that BSSN support them; in Fall 2017 we expanded our support of black student success to other programs and campuses across the College.
Black students at George Brown College are not the only group that has needs around learning in a culturally responsive, safe, equitable, and inclusive environment. This is why the work that BSSN is doing is so valuable to the George Brown College community, as it provides an opportunity to develop best practices and guidelines on innovative ways to support, engage and retain a growing number of “diverse” students looking to grow and learn at the college. The success of the BSSN is an additional positive step in the college’s commitment to a healthy campus environment where each student’s and staff’s unique perspectives and experiences are acknowledged and valued.
Have feedback for us? We’d love to hear from you at bssn@georgebrown.ca.
- Meet the BSSN team
Faculty, staff and students work closely to design and deliver BSSN programming to support Black students at George Brown. Our tutoring and mentoring services and special events are coordinated in partnership with Student Life and Academic and Student Affairs.
Reach us at bssn@georgebrown.ca.
MEET THE TEAM
Abisola Asha
Black Student Support Specialist & BSSN CoordinatorDeliah Jackson
BSSN Academic/Career AdvisorWangechi Mwaura
BSSN Program Assistant
Please send us an email for more information about our BSSN tutor with the Tutoring & Learning Centre!
Visit the BSSN Space
Visit the BSSN at St. James Campus for in-person support and a safe space!
Come find us at 200 King St. E. (Building A), room B130.
Drop by anytime during our open hours: Tuesday to Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
BSSN programming & supports
Talking Circle
Facilitated by one of GBC’s Black-identifying counsellors, our Talking Circle provides a safe space for Black students to share their stories and support one another without judgment. This inclusive environment values every voice and celebrates each person's unique experiences. Join us at the BSSN Space on the last Thursday of every month to build community, foster healing, and share techniques that support mental well-being.
Connect and Chill
Visit our welcoming BSSN Space where bonds are formed, stories are shared, and a thriving, supportive community is nurtured. These drop-in sessions are designed to help you feel at home, connect with others, and build a strong support network. Join us every second Wednesday of the month for an opportunity to foster positive relationships, exchange valuable insights, and be part of a caring community.
Wellness Tuesdays
Prioritize your mental health with our monthly Wellness Tuesday program, crafted specifically for Black students. These sessions feature engaging activities and valuable resources to support your mental well-being. Join us once a month on a Tuesday for a rejuvenating experience focused on relaxation, connection, and holistic wellness. Embrace this chance to unwind and build meaningful connections in a nurturing environment. For more details, make sure to sign up!
Academic/Career Advising
Unsure about your course choices or career path? Our Academic/Career Advising sessions, led by Deliah Jackson, are here to help. Deliah provides expert advice and personalized guidance to support your academic and professional goals. Join us to clarify your objectives, explore your options, and ensure you're on the right track towards success. Book an appointment with Deliah now.
BSSN's GBC Community Partners
Check out additional programs and support that we offer students in collaboration with various departments within the college:
- BSSN English Tutoring in partnership with the Tutoring and Learning Centre: BSSN English Tutoring is an academic support service offered in partnership with the Tutoring and Learning Centre. Book an appointment with a BSSN Black-identifying English tutor now.
- Connect with a GBC Counsellor: Access mental health support and guidance from professional counsellors. Connect with a GBC Counsellor here: Counselling Services
- Black Futures Initiatives: Black Futures stands as an innovative frontline force for George Brown College's Black community. Their work aims at eradicating anti-Black racism, championing transformation, and fostering an inclusive environment for Black students, staff, faculty, and allies within GBC.
- Peer Mentor+: Our goal is to increase student mental health, resiliency, and inclusion. Having someone to empathetically and non-judgmentally listen to you makes a difference. Our Peer Mentor services offer safe spaces on campus to rest, support groups, and one-to-one peer support.
- The Office of Anti-Racism, Equity and Human Rights Services (OAREHRS): Get help with navigating college policies, resolving issues, and accessing resources from the OAREHRS team.
Remember, you'll get more specific details about our events and programs once you sign up!
Keep an eye on the events calendar for any upcoming events listings.
