School of Professional and Community Development (SPCD)
Empowering Learners at Every Stage.
The School of Professional and Community Development (SPCD) at Medgar Evers College serves as a dynamic bridge between the College and the broader Brooklyn and New York City community, enriching lives through lifelong learning, empowerment, and civic engagement. Rooted in the legacy of social justice that defines Medgar Evers College, the SPCD is committed to expanding access to meaningful educational opportunities beyond traditional degree programs.
Mission
The mission of the School of Professional and Community Development is to support lifelong learning and community empowerment by delivering high-quality, accessible educational programs and services that strengthen personal, professional, and civic capacities for diverse learners. In alignment with Medgar Evers College’s mission and goals, SPCD promotes social justice, upward mobility, and community engagement by enhancing the skills, opportunities, and well-being of individuals and families through innovative instruction, partnerships, and advocacy.
This mission supports the College’s strategic focus on:
Access and inclusion – expanding educational opportunities for non-traditional learners and community residents.
Student and community success – empowering individuals to achieve economic and social advancement.
Community engagement and partnerships – collaborating with organizations to address local needs and aspirations.
Continuous improvement and excellence – applying evidence-based practices for program quality and sustained impact.
Core Purposes and Functions
The school of Professional and Community Development at Medgar Evers College is a dedicated school within the college that oversees community-focused education and workforce development.
Lifelong Learning & Workforce Readiness SPCD offers certificates, workshops, and skill-building courses to help learners prepare for new careers, advance in current professions, or strengthen academic foundations for future college-level study.
Youth Empowerment and Development Through the Academy for Youth, SPCD supports youth enrichment programs — including community center partnerships — that nurture leadership, academic growth, and civic participation.
Cultural and Personal Enrichment The School provides arts, culture, and personal growth workshops that celebrate diversity, enhance creative expression, and foster community identity.
Community-Connected Research & Advocacy By housing research and advocacy centers, SPCD contributes to knowledge production, community awareness, and policy engagement on critical social issues — advancing Medgar Evers College’s role as a community partner and change agent.
Welcome Message from the Dean
Greetings,
On behalf of Medgar Evers College, I extend a warm welcome to the School of Professional and Community Development. Our School is dedicated to advancing lifelong learning, workforce readiness, and community empowerment through a wide range of youth and adult programs that expand access to opportunity and promote upward mobility.
We offer a broad spectrum of educational experiences, including enrichment programming, career training, and employment pathways that align with your personal and professional goals. I encourage you to explore our programs and certificates, which are designed to help shape your future, strengthen your skills, and deepen your impact within your community.
We look forward to serving you.
Dr. Evelyn Castro,
Dean
School of Professional and Community Development
Community Programs & Initiatives
Adult Literacy Center (ALC)
Unlock new opportunities with HSE prep, literacy skills, and workforce empowerment for adults.
Beacons
The Beacon Program fosters youth success through leadership, academics, and safe after-school growth.
Cornerstone Initiative
Strengthening neighborhoods with career development and family support right in your community.
CUNY Citizenship Now
Free bilingual legal assistance for naturalization, DACA, and immigration document support.
CUNY Edge
Achieve self-sufficiency through academic support, career planning, and professional development.
Liberty Partnerships Program
Empowering middle and high schoolers through mentoring, college exposure, and academic success.
Science and Technology Entry Program
Building future leaders in STEM through research, enrichment, and expert academic instruction.
SPCD Impact
Transforming lives through structured pathways to education, employment, and community power.
Summer Youth Employment Program
Gain professional skills and workplace readiness through paid summer career experiences.
Young Adult Borough Center
Earn your diploma in a flexible, supportive environment designed for over-age and under-credited learners.