ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A new program at St. Pete Community College is providing financial relief to African American male high school graduates who are serious about going to college there.

The initiative is called Florida African American Male Experience (FAAME). The goal is to increase the enrollment of African American male students at the college and help them succeed.

“The grant is designed to assist students to walk across that stage with zero to little debt,” said coordinator Steve Marshall.

According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, public two-year colleges have seen nearly a 15% drop in overall enrollment between 2019 and 2021. And last year, the enrollment of black male freshmen dropped by more than 21%. That’s more than any other demographic.

Recently, the Helios Education Foundation awarded St. Pete Community College a $1.6 million grant to boost the number of black male freshmen and help them succeed. The money will be used to help pay for their schooling and provide a network of support.

Leto graduate Jo’el Hicks didn’t know how he’d pay for college before he was recently accepted into the FAAME program. He called it a blessing.

“I know it’s going to take a lot of work, but I’m ready for it,” Hicks said. “I’m ready for it.”

Marshall said the initiative could be crucial in the success of many African American students.

“I know what it was like being a high school graduate and not have support and resources to go to college,” Marshall said. “It was a great struggle for me and I overcame those barriers. I don’t want others to have to go through that.”

To learn more about the FAAME program, visit the St. Pete Community College website or contact Steve Marshall at (727) 712-5887, Marshall.steve@spcollege.edu.