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A²MEND

The African American Male Education Network & Development (A²MEND) is a nationally recognized organization dedicated to empowering students through mentorship, leadership development, and academic support. While A²MEND is designed primarily to assist African American men in navigating higher education and achieving their full potential, the organization is inclusive and welcomes all students who seek personal growth, community engagement, and professional success. Through its student charters, leadership programs, and advocacy initiatives, A²MEND provides academic resources, mentorship opportunities, and professional development to help students excel in college and beyond. With a focus on education, cultural awareness, and student success, A²MEND works closely with faculty, administrators, and community leaders to create a supportive environment where all students can thrive. 

Mission

A²MEND’s mission is to advocate for the academic, psychological and spiritual development of Black male students, faculty, staff and administrators in educational systems. A²MEND educators utilize their scholarship, professional expertise and influence to foster institutional change while creating independent educational spaces and institutions to increase the success of Black male students within education and other systems.

    • Program Benefits (Why Join?)
      Benefits of  A²MEND include:
      • Access to a supportive communal space (Center for Black Culture & Student Success)
      • Access to a dedicated academic counselor
      • (NEW!) Calculator Loan Program
      • Opportunity to attend the statewide Annual A²MEND Summit 
      • Opportunity to attend the statewide A²MEND Leadership Academy
      • Eligibility for A²MEND scholarships and travel awards
      • A supportive peer network and professional mentorship
      • Career and professional development
      • Culturally-relevant programs, events, that promote belonging, brotherhood and well-being
    • Program Eligibility (To Apply)
      To join the  A²MEND program, you must:
    • Program Requirements (To Remain Eligible)
      To remain eligible and active in the A²MEND program, you must:
      • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 of higher
      • Connect with your assigned mentor or peer leader at least once each semester
      • Participate in a minimum of four (4) A²MEND workshops/events each semester
      • Have an up-to-date Comprehensive Ed. Plan on file
 
 

A²MEND Resources

Program Highlights

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A²MEND African American Male Student Success Summit

The A²MEND African American Male Student Success Summit is a transformative gathering that brings together Black male students, educators, and leaders from across the country to inspire academic excellence, leadership, and personal growth. Through engaging workshops, networking opportunities, and culturally affirming experiences, the summit empowers participants to build community, strengthen their educational journey, and advance their vision for success.

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A²MEND Scholarship Program

A²MEND scholarships provide students with financial support for tuition, books and living expenses. Scholarships are awarded to students with special qualifications, such as academic achievement, artistic abilities, demonstrated leadership and/or athletic talents. Scholarships also are awarded to students who are in a particular field of study, are members of underrepresented groups or demonstrate a financial need. These scholarships support students as they pursue their education in community colleges or while transferring to four-year institutions.

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A²MEND Leadership Academy

The A²MEND Leadership Academy is a transformative mentorship and leadership development program designed to support high-achieving African American male students through personalized mentoring, scholarships, professional networking, and more. Participants gain the tools, confidence, and support needed to excel academically, grow personally, and prepare for successful careers and transfer to four-year universities. A signature feature of the Leadership Academy is the opportunity to participate in A²MEND’s transformative Study Abroad program in Africa.

 
 

A²MEND Mentors