Welcome to Shades of Sisters
A sisterhood cultivated in community, rising together.
Shades of Sisters, or SOS, is a community for women of color at Barstow Community College. It is a place to build friendships, find mentors, grow as a leader, and have people in your corner throughout your college journey.
College can be exciting, challenging, and sometimes overwhelming. You should not have to figure it all out alone.
Whether you are looking for community, encouragement, leadership opportunities, or simply a place where you feel like you belong, there is a seat for you here.
What You’ll Gain as an SOS Sister
Every student’s journey looks a little different. Some students join because they want to make friends. Others are looking for mentorship, academic support, or leadership opportunities. Whatever brings you here, we are excited to walk alongside you.
- 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
You Belong Here
There is no right way to be an SOS sister.
Some students join because they want leadership opportunities. Others are looking for mentorship, transfer support, encouragement, or simply a place to make friends.
However you arrive, you will be welcomed as you are. Every sister brings her own story, culture, experiences, and goals. Those differences are part of what makes our community strong.
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
Barstow Community College's Shades of Sisters (SOS) program is a group of dedicated students, staff, and faculty focused on creating a sense of belonging and bringing significant improvements for self-identifying female students of color in their personal, professional, educational lives, and on. SOS aims to break down barriers that are based on gender. Our cohort addresses the various goals and challenges faced by Black and brown underrepresented women, providing a safe space for empowerment and holistic support. This cohort is specifically designed to improve leadership skills, academic success, build strong interpersonal connections, and encourage self-care and healing practices.
Vision
We envision a campus where women of color are not only seen but celebrated, a space where their leadership flourishes, stories are honored, and dreams are fully realized. Shades of Sisters strives to be the pulse of change, sparking academic excellence, inclusive leadership, emotional wellness, and a deep culture of radical care. Through intentional connection and unwavering support, we nurture a community where every sister is empowered to rise, thrive, and lead unapologetically.
Together, we are rewriting the narrative, and the world will hear us. Let's start throwing that positive S.H.A.D.E. today!
What S.H.A.D.E. Means to Us
These values guide how we support one another and build community.
S: Sisterhood
Sisterhood means having people in your corner. We build relationships, celebrate one another, and create a space where women of color feel heard, valued, and supported.
H: Harmony
We come from different backgrounds and carry different experiences. SOS gives us room to learn from one another, build trust, and grow together.
A: Advocacy
We speak up for equity, representation, and the success of women of color. We also help students find their own voices and feel confident using them.
D: Development
Growth looks different for every student. We help sisters build academic confidence, leadership skills, career readiness, and the tools they need to move toward their goals.
E: Empowerment
We want every sister to know that her voice matters. SOS connects students with resources, encouragement, and opportunities that can help them lead with confidence on campus and in their communities.
Sisterhood in Action
One of the best parts of SOS is that it is not just something you sign up for. It is something you experience.
Throughout the year, we laugh together, learn together, celebrate each other’s accomplishments, and support one another through challenges.
- 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
Behind every great sisterhood is a group of people cheering you on.
The Big SIS Crew is made up of staff and faculty who are here to answer questions, celebrate your successes, help you navigate challenges, and remind you that you do not have to do college alone.
Ready to Join the Sisterhood?
Whether this is your first semester or you are getting ready to graduate, there is a place for you in Shades of Sisters.
We would love to get to know you, celebrate your successes, and support you through the challenges that come with college.
We cannot wait to welcome you.
Questions? Email success@barstow.edu .
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