The Black Faculty Promotion Celebration shined a light on new and newly promoted Black faculty at CSUSB, with Marc Robinson, who was promoted to associate professor of history and earned tenure, taking center stage. The event honored Robinson’s hard work, dedication and contributions to the academic community.

“This event hosted by the Office of Black Student Success, in collaboration with Black Faculty, Staff and Student Association, is more than just a recognition of tenure and promotion, it is a testament to resilience, perseverance and the unwavering commitment to excellence within our community,” said Paz Olivérez, vice president for Student Affairs, during her opening remarks. 

The event provided attendees the opportunity to network and celebrate diversity at Cal State San Bernardino. Additionally, the Black Faculty Promotion Celebration strengthened the social network that supports Black success at CSUSB.

 A memorable moment in the event came when Brandon Gamble, director of the Office of Black Student Success (OBSS), played a curated playlist of music for the attendees, including top songs from 2004, the year Robinson graduated. The chart toppers included “Lean Back,” “Drop It Like It’s Hot,” and “Confessions.” Robinson selected the song “Tennessee” by Arrested Development, which played as he was introduced for his keynote address.

During his keynote, Robinson expressed how grateful he was for the recognition and acknowledged those who have supported and inspired him, especially his family who have played an instrumental role in his life. Additionally, Robinson shared insights about his journey, reflecting on milestones that have shaped his academic career.

Robinson discussed how his grandmother, who was like his second mother, always knew he was destined to help others.

“Even as a little kid, she would say, ‘Marc, someday you are going to grow up, and you are going to help people. I can see that in your future.’”

Those words rang true for Robinson and helped lead him on his path to higher education.

“I saw hard work, I saw dedication, I saw a lover of family, I saw faith, I saw community in my grandmother, and that is definitely part of my journey,” he said.

Robinson’s mother was another source of motivation for him to achieve his professional and educational goals.

“My mom gets all the credit for inspiring me and giving me the sense that I can achieve what I wanted to if I put my mind to it,” said Robinson, reflecting on the significance of his achievement. “Our family was not a family of people going to graduate school. Actually, me and my sister, our generation, is the first generation to go to college in my family.”

He added, “I feel whatever I have achieved is a reflection of those around me and those who have supported me.”

The Black Faculty Promotion Celebration, held on Oct. 11, not only highlighted Robinson's remarkable achievements but also served as a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and support.

This marks the first time the event has been held at CSUSB, with the goal of making it an annual celebration. Olivérez looks forward to the positive impact and future initiatives the Office of Black Student Success is set to bring to CSUSB under the leadership of Gamble.

“We are very excited for everything on the horizon for OBSS and all of the ways that their efforts and initiatives will enhance the Black student experience at CSUSB and support Black student success,” said Olivérez. “I also appreciate all of the innovative ideas and initiatives Dr. Gamble has brought to CSUSB, including tonight’s recognition and celebration.”

Olivérez went on to share the six degrees of separation she has with Gamble. “When he was teaching at Cal State Long Beach, he was actually my professor,” she said, highlighting their full-circle moment.

As Robinson reflected on his journey, he embodied the spirit of perseverance and the transformative impact of family and mentorship in shaping future leaders. The Black Faculty Promotion Celebration reinforced the importance of recognizing and uplifting Black voices within academia, inspiring all attendees to continue fostering an inclusive environment for generations to come.