August 11th 2023.
North Carolina Central University is a champion for Black male students, offering a variety of programs to help ensure their success. One such program is the Marathon Teaching Institute (MTI), which is committed to increasing the number of African-American male teachers, counselors, and Pk-16 administrators in North Carolina schools.
At NCCU, males only account for 30% of the student population, while females make up 70%. MTI works to bridge this gap, aiming to both recruit, retain, and prepare male students of color for excellence in the field of education. Through unique academic support, service to K-12 schools, professional development opportunities, and mentorship, MTI strives to develop leaders who promote social justice and dedicate themselves to changing the landscape of Pk-16 education.
ABC 11 recently spoke with first-generation college student Gareon Green, who shared his perspective on why he thinks males choose not to go to college after high school. According to Green, many of his high school buddies would say “school isn’t for them” or that “the work isn’t for them”. However, Green believes that with the right motivation and support, the work is not hard to do. He is currently majoring in criminal justice and hopes to be a lawyer one day.
Marquis Smith, president of MTI, is also a first-generation college student, hoping to become a history professor. He believes that Black males are a rare sight in the classroom, and works with other campus leaders to nurture students and expose them to local school districts. He hosts informational meetings and provides networking opportunities to help students advance their way into the classroom.
Gareon and Marquis are just two of the many students who have committed to helping increase the number of male graduates. To learn more about the MTI program, there will be an interest meeting held on August 31 at 10:40 a.m.
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