Empowering Black Families on the Journey to College—With Clarity, Confidence, and Community
The journey to college for African American students is more than a transition — it’s a powerful step toward opportunity, resilience, and representation.
The Top 4 Challenges Black Students Face at PWIs—And What Families Must Know to Navigate Them
Campus Climate and Racial Inclusion
The degree to which African American students feel welcomed, respected, and supported. Negative racial climates, microaggressions, and a lack of cultural representation can deter enrollment and increase attrition.
Financial Resources and Affordability
Economic barriers, including limited access to financial aid, scholarships, and family wealth, significantly impact both initial enrollment and the ability to persist through graduation.
Academic Preparation and Support
Disparities in K–12 education often result in gaps in college readiness. Once enrolled, access to tutoring, mentoring, and culturally competent academic support is critical for success.
Social and Emotional Support Networks
Feelings of isolation and lack of community can hinder persistence. Programs like Black student organizations, cultural centers, and mentorship opportunities greatly influence a student’s ability to thrive.
How Nkyinkyim Educational Pathways (NEP) Helps Black Families Navigate College with Confidence

About Me
I am Kris Y. Coleman, the founder of Nkyinkyim Educational Pathways (NEP), an educational consultant, attorney, and advocate dedicated to empowering African American families navigating the college journey.
With multiple advanced degrees and firsthand experience addressing the gaps left by disappearing DEI programs, I equip parents and students with tools to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally at PWIs. Through NEP, I combine cultural insight, practical solutions, and unwavering support to help families secure their students’ success.
Online Courses
Our online courses provide families with expert guidance, practical tools, and culturally relevant strategies designed to transform uncertainty into confidence. By equipping parents and students with knowledge and actionable plans, we empower them to overcome challenges, build resilience, and achieve lasting college success.

From $25.00
This course is for the parents who are sending their babies into institutions that don’t always see their brilliance. It’s for the caregivers who want to equip their students with more than supplies—but with wisdom, language, and strategy. And it’s for the families who refuse to let the loss of DEI erase their right to belong.

Important Conversations
From $10.00
College is more than a move-in checklist—it’s a life shift. This course guides families through the essential conversations that often go unspoken: identity and safety at PWIs, managing mental health, setting financial expectations, staying connected, and preparing for bias or cultural isolation. Equip your family with the language, confidence, and tools to support your student emotionally, socially, and academically—before they even step on campus.

From $25.00
This course empowers African American families with the tools to make smart, debt-conscious decisions before and during college. Learn how to decode financial aid packages, uncover hidden scholarships, and build a custom strategy that avoids long-term student loan debt. With step-by-step guides, real-world examples, and downloadable templates, you’ll be equipped to fund your student’s education with confidence and clarity..
Latest Blog Posts
Information is essential to the college planning process. Our coaching journey provides weekly guidance to help you stay informed, prepared, and on track every step of the way.

Preparing for Success: What Black Parents of New College Students at PWIs Should Focus on in May
Get Started Now
Ready to empower your student’s college journey with expert tools and culturally grounded support? Let’s get started.
Empower the Journey
Ready to empower your student’s college journey with expert tools and culturally grounded support?
We’ve got everything you need to prepare, advocate, and succeed—right here.