California Lutheran University created the Community Scholars for Black Lives Fellowship Program in 2020. Since its inception, the program has empowered a small cohort of students to develop research projects designed to shed light on systemic challenges while acting as a catalyst for meaningful change within Black and other communities of color.
Beyond the research, the program is dedicated to connecting the cohort and the broader student body with high-level opportunities in Healthcare, Business, and Entertainment. We intentionally facilitate opportunities that help students discover their “blueprint for success.” This includes everything from immersive site visits, leadership of panel discussions, exposure to national conferences to strategic relationship‑building with professionals who can inspire, mentor, and open doors. Many of these partnerships grow into sustained connections such as shadowing experiences and ongoing mentorship.
Fall 2025 marks a milestone for the Community Scholars for Black Lives Fellowship Program as we welcome our sixth cohort of change-makers.
Navar Else-Boss ’26
Empowerment and Recognition of African American Communities Through Art
This project aims to bring awareness, recognition, and inspiration to the underrepresented black student artists on campus and around our communities and will identify the origin of black art and its movement in America. This project will also attempt to preserve stories to express valid and powerful messages.
Esther Lazarre '26
Echoes of Resistance: Integration Perspective on Racism
This project seeks to reveal how racism, though less visible today, continues to exist in new forms, with the goal of opening the community’s eyes to these realities. The goal is that Black people, and hopefully all people, will become informed about the ongoing issues we face, empowering them to recognize and address these challenges.
Linda Saidi '27
Black Representation in Healthcare: Causes and Solutions
This research explores the underrepresentation of Black professionals in medicine and science. Through a documentary featuring interviews with Black healthcare workers and students, it uncovers systemic and historical barriers, highlights the importance of representation for patient outcomes, and proposes solutions to support future Black healthcare leaders.
Joshua Webster '26
How Communities of Color See Officers of Color in Law Enforcement Can Help Improve Trust in the Communities
“Strengthening Trust Between Law Enforcement and Communities of Color.” This project focuses on building trust between police and communities of color through empathy, cultural awareness, and open dialogue. By promoting community engagement and youth mentorship it highlights practical ways law enforcement can become true partners in creating safer, more connected neighborhoods.
| Rank | State | Gifts |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CA | 2 |
| 2 | NY | 1 |
| 3 | AA | 0 |
