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Department of African American and Diaspora Studies

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Scholar Identity Model Community Outreach Initiative

The Scholar Identity Model Community Outreach Initiative (SIMCOI) emerges from the vital intersection of academia and community, echoing the sentiments of luminaries like Dr. Carter G. Woodson, Mary McLeod Bethune, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Fannie Lou Hamer who recognized education as a potent tool for liberation. Within the Department of African American and Diaspora Studies, the echoes of history resound, emphasizing the pivotal role education plays in mitigating systemic injustices. Yet, contemporary challenges persist, with many students still grappling with academic apathy and a lack of access to resources that nurture a Scholar Identity.

In response, SIMCOI stands as a beacon of hope, drawing upon the proven efficacy of the Scholar Identity Model™. This model, steeped in research and practice, champions a holistic approach to education, dismantling barriers to learning while fostering intrinsic motivation and a sense of belonging. From Nashville, Tennessee to communities nationwide, SIMCOI catalyzes change by forging partnerships, implementing targeted interventions, and engaging with stakeholders at every level.

As we bridge the gap between academia and society, SIMCOI embodies the transformative power of education, empowering individuals to unlock their full potential and rewrite the narrative of educational inequality. Together, we envision a future where every learner thrives, academic excellence knows no boundaries, and the Scholar Identity flourishes as a beacon of empowerment and resilience.

See SIMCOI, a 10-day workshop for middle and high school students at Vanderbilt University, in action.

Local Community Partners

  • Why We Can’t Wait, Inc. – A dynamic nonprofit empowering marginalized communities through education and activism. With a focus on addressing systemic inequalities, they offer programs and initiatives that foster leadership, advocacy, and positive social change.
  • 100 Kings – An initiative by the 100 Black Men of Middle Tennessee, focused on mentoring and empowering young Black men. Through mentorship, leadership development, and community engagement, they strive to break barriers, foster academic success, and cultivate future leaders who will positively impact their communities.
  • Metro Nashville Public Schools – A diverse urban school district serving over 80,000 students in Nashville, Tennessee. Committed to academic excellence and equity, MNPS offers various educational programs and resources, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for students to achieve their full potential.
  • The Belcourt Theater – A historic cinema and cultural hub showcasing independent, classic, and foreign films. Beyond screenings, the Belcourt hosts educational programs, film festivals, and community events, enriching Nashville’s cultural landscape and fostering a deep appreciation for the cinematic arts.

National Partners & Research Events

  • National Black Student Achievement Association – A pioneering organization dedicated to advancing educational equity and excellence for Black students. Through advocacy, research, and community engagement, NBSAA works to dismantle systemic barriers, promote culturally responsive practices, and empower Black students to achieve their full potential academically and personally.
  • Scholar Identity Model™ – An internationally recognized psycho-social educational framework designed to empower learners of all backgrounds. This model cultivates academic excellence and fosters a culture of inclusivity and achievement in schools and communities worldwide by fostering intrinsic motivation, dismantling barriers to learning, and promoting a positive sense of identity.
  • International Conference on Urban Education – A collaborative network dedicated to advancing urban education research, policy, and practice globally. By fostering partnerships, sharing knowledge, and promoting innovative solutions, ICUE aims to address urban education systems’ unique challenges and promote equity and excellence for all learners.
  • Purdue University’s GER2I Program – A beacon for gifted youth of color, the Gifted Education Research and Resource Institute provides specialized support and enrichment opportunities. With a focus on nurturing talent and fostering academic excellence, GER2I aims to empower underrepresented students, equipping them with the skills and resources needed to thrive in a diverse world.
  • International Colloquium on Black Males in Education – A global forum dedicated to addressing Black males’ educational challenges and successes. ICBME aims to promote equity, academic achievement, and social mobility for Black males worldwide through research presentations, policy discussions, and collaborative initiatives.
  • Men of Color National Summit – A transformative event dedicated to addressing challenges faced by men of color in education and leadership. The summit aims to promote empowerment, academic achievement, and professional development for men of color nationwide through keynote speeches, workshops, and networking opportunities.