CSULB Partners with the BOSS Program to improve STEM outcomes for underrepresented youth

The College of Engineering has teamed up with local nonprofit Business of Student Success (BOSS) to help get more underserved communities into the field and the profession. Founded in 2017, the BOSS program focuses on improving STEM outcomes for BIPOC youth. 

“Organizations like BOSS will provide the College of Engineering critical access to historically underserved populations by our field and profession," Dean Jinny Rhee said. “We currently do not have these kinds of connections, and we cannot afford to miss out on this talent pool.” 

BOSS provides middle and high school students with year-round programming that is designed to provide increased access to mentorship, equipment and the lessons necessary to succeed. With more than 4000 students assisted by the program, dozens of BOSS graduates—including CSULB and COE alumni— have already made it through college, in-part thanks to BOSS’s multi-year commitment. 

“It starts with exposing them to people who look like them that are doctors, lawyers, engineers,” said BOSS founder Everett Glenn. “If man has done it, then man can do it.” 

From there Glenn’s team provide coaching, technological support and models for success to ensure their students matriculate to college. 

“Why do we use the phrase ‘secrets to success’ when these aren’t secrets,” said Glenn. “We ask that our students be coachable and have the commitment to start something new, and to continue it.” 

Before Glenn founded BOSS, he was a successful attorney and sports agent, becoming the first Black agent to represent multiple 1st round draft picks in the same draft. In part, he attributes his success to his sixth grade math teacher, Mr. Vaughn, helping Glenn see that anything was possible. 

“I grew up in inner-city Cleveland in challenging circumstances,” said Glenn. “When [students] work with us, they believe in us because we’ve had the same challenges as them.” 

By working together BOSS and the College of Engineering will have an opportunity to increase their reach and effectiveness. 

“We envision a college with representation that mirrors the demographics of the communities we serve, and an equitable environment where all students, staff, and faculty can reach their full potential,” said Rhee, about the new partnership. 

BOSS will co-locate within the college to allow for further collaboration between the organizations.