The Center for Policy and Research on Student Success, housed within the Umoja Community Education Foundation (UCEF), is dedicated to conducting rigorous, evidence-based research to promote holistic student achievement, equity, and community engagement. Guided by our foundational principles and commitments, the center generates, analyzes, and disseminates data-driven insights aimed at improving educational outcomes for students, particularly within the African Diaspora community.
Publications
Our Research Focus
The Center's research focuses on comprehensive evaluation and analysis, examining the effectiveness of Umoja programs and initiatives. Our approach integrates qualitative and quantitative methodologies to provide actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and institutional leaders.
Key areas of research include:
- Holistic Student Development: Examining the impacts of holistic educational practices on student well-being and academic achievement, with a specific focus on engaging students’ minds, bodies, and spirits.
- Community Building: Analyzing the role and effectiveness of communal accountability and culturally relevant practices within educational settings.
- Diaspora Connections: Assessing initiatives aimed at expanding students' cultural awareness and their ability to contextualize their educational experiences within the African Diaspora.
- Pedagogical Practices: Investigating the implementation and outcomes of culturally responsive curricula and pedagogical strategies.
For inquiries about our research or to discuss collaborations, contact us at info@umojacommunity.org.
External Research and Reports about UCEF's Work
Our center also curates and highlights research conducted by external partners, scholars, and organizations studying our work at UCEF. Below is a selection of notable research:
- 2024 Umoja Evaluation, Empowering Futures: Analyzing Outcomes for Umoja Students (California Community College Chancelors Office): Conducted by Education Insights at Sacramento State, this evaluation analyzes outcomes for Umoja students, highlighting program effectiveness and recommendations for future improvements. Read the 2024 Evaluation
- Umoja Evaluation Phases I and II (The RP Group): A two-phase statewide evaluation assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of the Umoja program. Read the Evaluation
- Umoja: The Power of Unity and Community (Umoja White Paper): Authored by Dr. Rose Asera, this white paper provides a comprehensive qualitative review of Umoja Community Education Foundation initiatives. Read the White Paper
- Umoja Report from the Institute for Social Research (ISR): Conducted by California State University, Sacramento, this independent evaluation examines student outcomes from participating in Umoja programs between 2011 and 2018. Read the ISR Report
- Umoja Community Evaluation (RP Group): This study assesses statewide technical assistance and training provided to Umoja program coordinators, highlighting key insights from coordinators across California. Read the RP Group Report
- State of Higher Education for Black Californians: A detailed analysis by the Campaign for College Opportunity focusing on college preparation, enrollment, and success among Black Californians, providing policy recommendations to improve educational equity. Read the State of Higher Education Report
- Black Minds Matter: Examining educational disparities facing Black youth in California from preschool through higher education, this report identifies trends and successful efforts to close achievement and opportunity gaps. Read the Black Minds Matter Report