Our Philosophy

B.E.A.M.S. is grounded in a relational mentorship model that emphasizes co learning, shared knowledge, and community care. As outlined in the program proposal, mentorship within B.E.A.M.S. is intentionally designed to support both Black graduate student interns and Black faculty mentors through structured engagement.

This approach is rooted in liberatory pedagogy and anti oppressive practice, recognizing that preparation for community college faculty roles requires both technical skill and critical understanding of institutional power, equity, and access.

Liberatory Pedagogy

Teaching approaches that challenge exclusionary academic structures while centering justice, inclusion, and empowerment in community college classrooms.

Anti-Oppressive Practices

Intentional strategies for identifying and addressing systemic inequities within teaching, mentoring, and institutional spaces.

Professional Development

Practical preparation aligned with the responsibilities of full time community college faculty, including teaching, service, and institutional participation.

woman points at a computer screen for another woman

Program Outcomes

Participation in B.E.A.M.S. supports interns in developing:

  • Preparation for full time, tenure track community college faculty roles.
    Participants develop the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to pursue and compete for tenure track faculty positions in the community college system.

  • Equity centered and liberatory teaching practices.
    Participants build teaching approaches that center justice, inclusion, and student empowerment while challenging inequitable classroom and institutional practices.

  • Understanding of community college governance, service, and faculty responsibilities.
    Participants gain insight into the roles faculty play beyond teaching, including governance, service, and institutional decision making.

  • Professional materials and interview readiness for faculty hiring.
    Participants receive guidance and support in developing application materials and preparing for community college faculty interviews.

  • Sustained mentorship relationships beyond the internship period.
    Participants build ongoing mentorship relationships that continue to support their professional growth after the internship concludes.