The University of California – Historically Black Colleges and Universities Initiative (UC-HBCU) awarded $87,307 to support Bridge to Research in School Psychology (BRiSP) in the School of  Education (SOE). The program introduces four students from Xavier University, a HBCU renowned  for its academic excellence, to the field of school psychology and its diverse research areas, while  offering training in research skills and the graduate application process. 

The field of school psychology faces a significant racial diversity gap, with 86% of practicing school  psychologists and 79% of university faculty identifying as white, while Black students and faculty  represent only 4% and 8% respectively. Addressing the disparity is crucial to building a school  psychology workforce that reflects the diversity of the K-12 student population. 

“This initiative opens pathways into doctoral study for underrepresented students, taking an  important step toward addressing diversity gaps in the field,” said Dr. Eui Kyung Kim, Principal  Investigator and Associate Professor of School Psychology at the SOE. “By offering mentorship and  research experience, it helps lay the foundation for future leaders who can uplift communities and  ensure every student’s voice is heard.”  

Kim and Co-Principal Investigator Dr. Wesley Sims, Assistant Professor of School Psychology at the  SOE, will lead an 8-week summer internship program and coordinate its comprehensive  components throughout the academic year. The program will involve two faculty mentors from  UCR and faculty mentors from Xavier University. 

Eui Kim, Ph.D.

Associate Professor

Wes Sims, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor