15 Sep Fresh Fades, Real Talk: Barbershop Series Sparks Dialogue & Community at CSUF
Cal State Fullerton students wanting to look their freshest and get inspired are invited to Associated Student Inc.’s event series, “Barbershop Talks” on Sept. 16, Oct. 21 and Nov. 18 from noon to 2 p.m. in the Titan Student Union Pub. Students can sign up for time slot on the SignUpGenius website. Spots are limited.
In partnership with the CSUF Male Success Initiative (MSI), Black Titan Academic Success and African American Resource Center, ASI will provide students with free haircuts and snacks, along with casual open dialogue on the transition after college.
Barbershops are proving to be more than just places for haircuts; they are emerging as trusted spaces to support men’s mental health. A recent review of community-based participatory research (CBPR) highlighted how barbers use their trusted relationships with clients to promote mental wellness, provide informal support and connect men with resources.
“Through this collaboration, the goal is for students to become aware of all of the spaces where they can create community and enhance their sense of belonging,” said Center for Scholars and MSI Director Dr. Felipe Martinez.
Barbershop Talks spring 2025 event drew in students of all backgrounds. / Credit: ASICSUF Flickr
The event will also feature guest speaker Gerrel D. Sayles, a CSUF alumnus and creator of the empowerment series “Reflect, Reset, Reimagine: Crown Your Leadership,” which explores identity, shares stories, and helps attendees develop skills through group discussions.
The collaboration reflects ASI’s ongoing commitment to cultivating wellness, inclusivity and community-focused spaces for CSUF students.
“The vibes will be really cool. Essentially, all of this is to give back to the campus, but also to help [students] with mental health,” said ASI Student Programs and Engagement student assistant Jorge Lua-Viera. “If you don’t feel good, if you don’t feel like you look good, then it can really affect the way you view life every day.”
Students can expect authentic conversations, new looks and community-based bonding at the Barbershop Talks series this fall.