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Welcome to Shades of Sisters
A sisterhood cultivated in community, rising together.
Shades of Sisters, also known as SOS, is a supportive community created to uplift women of color at Barstow Community College. Through sisterhood, mentorship, academic support, leadership development, and culturally affirming experiences, SOS helps students build meaningful connections and thrive throughout their college journey.
Here, you do not have to navigate college alone. Together, we build, lead, heal, and rise.
What You’ll Gain
- Tier 2 priority registration
- A supportive community centered on belonging and connection
- Academic, transfer, personal, and professional success support
- Mentorship from BCC faculty, staff, alumni, and community members
- Leadership and professional development opportunities
- Cultural events, workshops, conferences, and sisterhood activities
- Monthly meetings and individualized check-ins
- Opportunities to strengthen your résumé and transfer applications
A Community Created for You
Shades of Sisters is designed to support BCC students who identify as women of color and are interested in building community, developing as leaders, and growing academically, personally, and professionally.
SOS honors the different identities, cultures, experiences, and strengths each student brings to the sisterhood.
Program Participation
To participate in Shades of Sisters, students should:
- Be enrolled in at least six units at Barstow Community College
- Participate in monthly group meetings
- Complete monthly individual check-ins
- Be willing to engage in personal, academic, and leadership development opportunities
Virtual check-ins and make-up opportunities are available when needed. We understand that students balance school, work, family, and other responsibilities.
Our Mission and Vision
Mission
Shades of Sisters creates a culturally affirming community where women of color at BCC can build meaningful relationships, strengthen their leadership, overcome barriers, and receive holistic support throughout their educational journeys.
Vision
We envision a campus where women of color are seen, celebrated, and empowered to thrive. Through intentional connection, academic support, inclusive leadership, emotional wellness, and radical care, SOS nurtures students who are prepared to rise, lead, and create meaningful change.
What S.H.A.D.E. Means to Us
Our shared values shape how we build community, support one another, and create change.
S — Sisterhood
We cultivate meaningful relationships, belonging, and a community where women of color can be heard, valued, and supported. We are stronger together, and every sister deserves people in her corner.
H — Harmony
We honor our different identities, backgrounds, and experiences while building connections grounded in understanding, respect, and shared growth. Our differences make our sisterhood stronger.
A — Advocacy
We advocate for equity, representation, social justice, and the holistic success of women of color. We challenge barriers and create space for our voices, needs, and experiences to be recognized.
D — Development
We strengthen academic confidence, leadership skills, career readiness, and the resilience needed to reach our goals. From college completion to career transitions, we help one another prepare for what comes next.
E — Empowerment
We amplify our voices, challenge societal barriers, and equip one another with the knowledge, confidence, and resources needed to lead boldly within our campus and communities.
Sisterhood in Action
SOS is more than a program it is a community you can actively experience. Students participate in opportunities such as:
- Monthly sisterhood gatherings and individualized check-ins
- Cultural celebrations, workshops, and conferences
- Leadership, service, and campus involvement opportunities
- Academic success and transfer preparation activities
- Wellness, self-care, and community-building experiences
- Mentorship and connections with campus and community professionals
Meet the Women in Your Corner
The Big SIS Crew provides mentorship, encouragement, academic guidance, and connections to campus resources throughout your Shades of Sisters journey.
Ready to Find Your Sisterhood?
Join a community where your experiences are honored, your goals are supported, and your voice matters. Apply to Shades of Sisters and take your next step with a team of sisters in your corner.
Questions? Email success@barstow.edu .
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