Taking place Thursday, Feb. 27-Saturday, March 1, the inaugural RUSH program is designed for self-identified Black students who have been admitted to Cal Poly Humboldt as first-year or transfer students for the 2025-26 academic year. Through travel reimbursements of up to $350; one-on-one meetings with representatives from their academic department; and introductions to key campus resources like housing, financial aid, and wellness services, RUSH ensures students feel prepared and connected before they even begin classes.
The program is a collaborative effort between Cal Poly Humboldt’s Umoja Center for Pan African Student Excellence, Black Humboldt, and the University’s Admissions Department. It is also part of the California State University Chancellor’s Office initiative, Advancing Black Student Success and Elevating Black Excellence, which seeks to increase Black student enrollment, retention, and achievement across the CSU system.
Aside from being an informational event, RUSH hopes to help students foster a sense of belonging—both on campus and in the wider Humboldt community.
“The purpose of this event is for admitted students to see themselves in Humboldt,” says Sulaina Banks, visit experience coordinator at Cal Poly Humboldt. “It’s important for students and their families to meet the Black community here, both on and off campus.”
Banks recalls her own experience arriving in Humboldt County. At first, she primarily connected with other Black students, but it wasn’t until she attended a local event that she realized the area had a strong Black community beyond campus.
“That really helped solidify my decision to stay here during and even after college,” she explains. “Yes, this is a predominantly white area, but there is a strong Black population, and it’s a close-knit community.”
The program kicks off on Thursday, Feb. 27, with a welcome dinner followed by the Black Out Game Night at Lumberjack Arena, where students and their families can attend Cal Poly Humboldt’s men’s and women’s basketball games—a night that also honors Humboldt’s Black staff and faculty across campus. On Friday, students will have the opportunity for one-on-one academic meetings, where students will connect with faculty and current students to start building their academic paths. Followed by a community event with food, music, and tabling, in addition to an optional movie night.
Throughout the weekend, students will participate in programming focused on academic success, financial aid guidance, housing, and health and wellness services. A key part of the event is the involvement of Alexus-Harrelle Deshazier, Umoja Center program coordinator, and her team from the Center. Throughout the programming, they will be with the students and their families to develop the necessary rapport and connections in preparation for their transition to campus in the upcoming months.
“There’s a lot more to college after the admissions process,” Banks explains. “Financial aid, housing, and choosing classes can be overwhelming—especially for first-generation students. RUSH is here to help make that transition easier while also introducing students to the resources and people who will support them throughout their journey.”
Black students often face unique challenges in the college admissions process, including difficulty finding culturally relevant support systems. RUSH directly addresses these issues by creating mentorship opportunities, and ensuring students feel seen and valued from day one.
“We can make sure you’re supported during this event—and even after this event,” says Banks.
For more information about RUSH, reach out to Sulaina Banks at sulaina.banks@humboldt.edu or (707) 826-3507.