This qualitative study focuses on the experiential effects that a Black Men Achieve Program (BMA) had on Black male college students at MidSouth University (pseudonyms). Using semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire, students offered their perceptions of their educational and personal experiences through the BMA. According to the students, the benefits of engaging in the program and participating in various activities were empowering. Students expressed that they garnered social and cultural capital, improved their academic and social engagement, and heightened their sense of self. As a result, students were more aware of various resources and opportunities, felt more connected to their peer group, and began to shatter their own perceptions of stereotypes about Black men. These findings demonstrate the importance of engaging Black men in opportunities that place them at the center of the foci, thus offering personal, social, academic, and professional benefits that enhance their college experience.

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This article advances knowledge on the significance of engagement and leadership for five Latino and Black male student leaders at a Hispanic-serving institution. By exploring their experiences in a male-centered initiative, identity and masculinity emerged as salient frames to understand students' engagement on campus. Individual and focus group interviews yielded that relationships and male peer-to-peer bonding built on students' cultural wealth by providing unique opportunities for learning and self-growth. Implications are offered as well. Resumen Este artículo avanza el conocimiento del significado de la conexión y el liderazgo en cinco estudiantes hombres latinos y negros líderes en una institución de educación superior que sirve a hispanos. Al explorar sus experiencias en una iniciativa centrada en masculinidad: identidad y masculinaidad emergieron como marcos salientes para entender la conexión de estudiantes y su universidad. Entrevistas individuales y grupos foco indicaron que relaciones y amistades de compañeros hombres construídas a través de la riqueza cultural de estudiantes, proveen oportunidades únicas para aprender y desarrollarse. Además se ofrecen implicaciones.