Throughout Black History Month, Austin Community College District (ACC) asks influential and accomplished faculty, staff, and students to discuss what Black History Month means to them.

Jason Brown has worked at ACC for nine years. He was recently picked to become the inaugural manager of the college's Black Representation of Achievement through Student Support program (BRASS).

Why do you work at ACC?

ACC does a great job of achieving equity with its employees, students, and the community. ACC also promotes upward mobility with its employees, which motivates me to pursue many goals and opportunities within the college.

Why do you believe it's important for the college to commemorate Black History Month?

I believe that Black History is also American History and should be celebrated throughout the year, not only in February. We have to continue to build on the study of Black history and get people to understand and learn more about the important roles of Black people in the larger narrative of the United States.

What are some personal or professional accomplishments you are most proud of?

I am proud to have earned my current position, the manager of BRASS. This is an opportunity that I've dreamed of for years! My goals are to increase access, persistence, and graduation rates for all of our Black students. I will also continue to assist and be a beacon of hope for all students.

What's the best lesson you've learned?

One lesson that I've learned in my previous leadership role as advising supervisor of the San Gabriel Campus is to make sure to lead individuals and not just lead a team. I believe that you should lead your team as a single entity, but a team is made up of individuals that are all different and unique so one size doesn't fit all. I always make sure to consider each individual and see how to adapt my approach to get the best results from everyone, which may lead to a happier, more effective team.

Why do you feel it is important to seek out and value diverse perspectives?

It is always good to have more voices in the room and more seats at the table. It allows you to gain a broader perspective, address challenges, and see solutions through different lenses. The perspectives can pertain to gender, race, age, experience, etc. When different voices are included, you'll solve challenges by cohesion.

How do you build bridges between communities?

One of my many goals for BRASS will be to become heavily involved in the Greater Austin community. I would love for our students to participate in many service-learning activities. I will also make sure to reach out to the community to see how BRASS and ACC can be of any assistance to them. I would love to make myself more accessible to the community by coming to them and helping them reach their goals.

What inspires you?

What inspires me is to continue to be a great example for my son. I want him to see me reach and surpass all of my goals with the hope of inspiring him and other kids within the community to believe that they can do anything!