"The music recording technology major quickly discovered that the sessions provided more than just a haircut; they gave him and other young Black men space to talk about issues they care about, from career paths to the social challenges they face. "The moment I stepped in, I felt like I belonged there," Clauzel said. "It's a place where I can meet new people, improve as a person and learn something from others.""
"Launched in October 2025, the sessions are hosted by LaGuardia's Black Male Empowerment Cooperative, an extension of The City University of New York's Black Male Initiative, which is designed to engage and empower students of color. The program brings over 20 students together every other Thursday for free haircuts, facilitated dialogue and candid conversations about finance, career pathways, mental health and personal growth."
LaGuardia Community College launched biweekly barbershop sessions in October 2025 through the Black Male Empowerment Cooperative, an extension of CUNY's Black Male Initiative. More than 20 Black male students attend every other Thursday for free haircuts combined with facilitated dialogue. Sessions focus on finance, career pathways, mental health, personal growth and social challenges while fostering belonging and peer support. Professional barber Jorge Perez administers haircuts and leads conversations with students. The sessions frequently run past the scheduled hour due to high engagement. Similar barbershop-style programs exist at several other colleges and universities.
Read at Inside Higher Ed | Higher Education News, Events and Jobs
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