Media & Publications
ACG prides itself on being thought-leaders and trailblazers. Through our publications, webinars, and podcasts, our team of professionals are active community members leading the way towards positive progressive change. From the CEO to the Director of Marketing, our team of experts are nationally known and invited guest on local and national media networks.
Books
Surviving College: The Blueprint is a comprehensive textbook created to teach incoming students how to navigate the perils of college by using the collective experiences of others. Using case studies as its pedagogical foundation, Surviving College teaches students important life-lessons that are essential to their academic success. Using this dynamic textbook, students learn a range of skills to include: how to navigate the college culture, how to address homesickness, how to balance work/school/family responsibilities, how to engage instructors, how to avoid the traps of social media, how to manage stress and expectations, how to reconcile leaving your family and starting over, time management, study skills, how to engage and accept cultural diversity, partying and substance abuse, how to pay for college – financial aid – grants – scholarships, and so many other important topics.
Surviving the Crossroads (STC) is a comprehensive, skills-based curriculum that teaches students invaluable lessons inside and outside the classroom. We believe that by focusing on skills rather than content construction, students will be able to transfer principles learned during the assignments and apply them to any academic or non-academic setting.
The fundamental premise of STC is predicated on three major assumptions: (1) if we enhance the tools students use to make better decisions, students will make better choices inside and outside the classroom; (2) if students feel validated and inspired to learn, they will transition from consumers of information to producers of knowledge; and (3) if we can infuse compassion within the delivery of content, students will transition from dependent to independent self-directed learners.
We all encounter crossroads in our lives; the real question is – what do we do when we get there? Crossroads are the intersections where opportunity meets adversity. These critical moments define our character and determine our future. One decision can lead to a lifetime of prosperity or a lifetime of pain. If only there was a roadmap to help us navigate our paths. If only there was a blueprint to assist us when we meet our crossroad.
Well, search no more. Crossroads is that blueprint. Crossroads is a roadmap that teaches you how to navigate life’s challenges while building a future of success. Crossroads takes you on a journey into the lives of ordinary people who had to face extraordinary circumstances. Crossroads teaches you how to navigate life’s ups and downs and how to create a life of success while living in despair.
In the absence of role models and mentors to seek for guidance, decisions at the crossroads have the potential to be life-altering. Many of these decisions result in life or death consequences. At the crossroads, life gives us three possible paths: Success, Despair, and Death. Crossroads takes you on a journey into each of these paths, giving you the unique ability to stand at the top of your path and catch a glimpse of what it holds for your future.
Recent Peer Reviewed Publications
Law Enforcement Education and Training: A Review of Literature and Critical Analysis
Abstract
Background: Recent killings of unarmed Black males murdered on national television has given rise to the successful prosecution of law enforcement officers, as well as new inquiries into officer discretion when applying deadly force. However, few scholars have called into question the methods used to train law enforcement officers, and how academy training prepares law enforcement officers to engage Black males. This research sought to provide a conceptual and cognitive framework for understanding deadly encounters between law enforcement and Black males and provide evidence‑based content and recommendations to law enforcement to improve curricula and officer training. Methodology: Using case study methodology, a conflict between a Black male and a law enforcement officer is examined. Results: The results of the study reveal that current law enforcement training and education do not adequately prepare officers with the psychological tools needed to navigate the adversarial relationship between Black males and members of law enforcement. A combination of past experiences and behavior cues elicit responses from both Black males and law enforcement officers that often result in deadly encounters. Conclusions: There is no standardized curriculum for police officers across the United States. The majority of law enforcement training programs focus on physical and tactical elements with strength and firearms training at the core. A robust training that prepares officers for what they will experience in the field is warranted.
Beyond PTSD: Black Male Fragility in the Context of Trauma
Abstract
Homicide is the leading cause of death among Black males aged 18–25. By the year 2020, children of color will become the majority of youth in the United States 18 years of age and under. However, despitethetrajectoryofyouthofcolorinAmerica, there is a dearth of research that investigates their experiences. The current study investigates the effects of traumatic experiences, and how they impact the psychological disposition of Black males living in violent communities. In our sample, we identified multiple complex symptoms of trauma, and evidence that suggests that exposure to recurring violence and fears of death materially alters one’s psychological disposition and ability to function. Results of the study add to the literature by extending the understanding of black males beyond traditional typologies and medical classifications of PTSD. The current study challenges the research community to understand the cultural context of Black males and the underlying behaviors that are associated with PTSD symptoms. The current study extends the understanding of hypervigilance by highlighting the impact of the code of the streets while elucidating the significance of internalized stigma.
Selected Media and Keynote Appearances
Dr. Gil Singletary, WLEX Lexington interview.
Dr. Singletary appeared on Atlanta's most popular radio show, WAOK.
