PERSIST Scholars Living Learning Community
PERSIST is a living-learning cohort program open to all first-year men, with a focus on celebrating and exploring African American culture. PERSIST exists to help members build connections and realize their leadership potential in both academics and the broader community. All students are welcome and encouraged to participate in programming, regardless of their background.
About Us
PERSIST stands for Promoting Excellence and Reinforcing Success in Student Transitions. Emphasis is placed on scholarship, culture, leadership, mentoring, and civic engagement.
Scholars are advised by the Chief Diversity Officer and participate in Office of Inclusive Excellence programming.
PERSIST Scholars:
- Enroll in a unique General Education course taught by the PERSIST Director
- Co-sponsor the annual Kwanzaa celebration
- Become Ubuntu mentors
- Are eligible for the King’s Men Honor Society
- Live together in the Spencer Residence Hall
To me, PERSIST means having brotherhood and support from all sides. Being a PERSIST Scholar means you’ll never have to figure it out alone.
TyRonClass of ’27
The PERSIST Scholar Path
During the first year as a PERSIST scholar, you’ll engage in Harambee activities and develop a plan for reaching your educational goals. You’ll learn to identify your skills and values and understand how your unique presence adds value to the MBU community.
You’ll also serve as a student ambassador for the Office of Inclusive Excellence, reinforcing your commitment to diversity programming, including the Black Boys Read Book Drive.
After the first year, you’ll have the opportunity to be inducted into the King’s Men Honor Society.
Note: Non-members who fully engage in PERSIST activities their first semester are invited to join.
Second-year PERSIST scholars will be exposed to the world of service through leadership by exploring what it means to be a global citizen. You’ll serve as Ubuntu mentors, peer advisors, and PERSIST staff members. You’ll be encouraged to take a leadership role in Men with Vision.
During your third year as a PERSIST scholar, you’ll continue to meet monthly and establish yourself as a highly involved campus and classroom leader. You’ll work with the alumni network to plan and execute the Sankofa Leadership Conference, an annual event designed to consider the past and imagine the future for students at Mary Baldwin. You’ll also be encouraged to serve as student ambassadors for racial and social justice.
During your fourth year, you’ll prepare for life after MBU. You’ll receive individualized career and professional coaching and learn how to navigate job searches or the graduate school application process. You’ll learn how to manage your finances and live independently.
Live and Thrive Together
Members of PERSIST live together in the Spencer Residence Hall. Here’s what to expect:
- Double occupancy rooms
- Full communal kitchen, TV room, and laundry facilities
- Special cultural programming and activities
- Student organization offices
Ready to Apply?
The PERSIST Scholars Program is open to applicants who have already been accepted to Mary Baldwin. The application includes:
- One teacher recommendation
- A formal essay of 1,000 words or less
- An activities resume (e.g., extracurriculars, community service)
- An interview with the Office of Inclusive Excellence
FAQ
Male students who demonstrate high academic promise and are engaged in programming facilitated by the Office of Inclusive Excellence will be invited to be a part of the King’s Men Honor Society. We expect the members to be culturally aware, engaged in the campus and broader community and to be a physical demonstration of leadership and citizenship. King’s Men is the brother organization to the Ida B. Wells Society.
A semi-annual conference connecting students with MBU alumni to discuss leadership and success in a variety of career fields. This event empowers attendees to grow in effective communication, team building, problem-solving, and other key skills of leaders.
For more information on MBU’s commitment to inclusive excellence and Title VI compliance, please visit the Title VI page.
Contact Us
Destiny Woodall (she/her)
Director, Office of Inclusive Excellence
Email: dswoodall@marybaldwin.edu
Instagram: @marybaldwinoie