In a study of the role values may play in the achievement of black college students: (1) consensually validated definitions of values were obtained; (2) ability was measured using tests standardized on black college students; (3) values were measured with both rank order and rating scales; and (4) academic achievement data were collected. The results suggest that ability moderates the relationship between values and achievement with stronger positive relationships among students with low measured ability. Strong values for all black people and independence for all black people are positive correlates of academic performance. (Author)