In an attempt to contribute to the advancement of Africana Studies as a discipline, it is vital that scholars of the field continue to assess the effectiveness of the various departments under the umbrella of Africana Studies. This research explores and assesses the departmental activities of two Africana Studies departments within the California State University system to identify effective models of student research engagement as a means of carrying out the mission of the discipline. In addition, this research offers recommendations for advancing the disciplinary mission. That authors use an Afrocentric lens to link the historical fight to preserve African peoples' humanity with the constant need to reengage African culture as a source for healing and accurately addressing contemporary challenges. Lastly, this article outlines guidelines for departments and scholars in the field of Africana Studies to continue to transform academic spaces into tools for liberatory research.