While the largest growth in the college-age population (i.e., 18 to 24 year olds) is among minority group members, the largest decline in college-going rates is among minorities. Because of poor academic preparation, rising tuition rates, and declining financial aid resources, the community college has become the college of necessity, rather than the college of choice, for most minority students. It is the duty of community colleges to recognize the importance of their mission to provide quality education to their minority and disadvantaged population to enable them to become skilled and productive members of society. It is the duty of trustees, presidents, and faculties to accomplish these goals by exercising leadership, creativity, and innovativeness; by taking risks; and by providing the necessary resources. While studies show that currently community colleges are not meeting their obligation to minority students, certain states and institutions are serving as excellent models. A comprehensive plan for minority recruitment and retention has been initiated in New Jersey, involving financial aid packages, high school outreach programs, equal opportunity programs, a strong database to track student progress, grant funding of creative minority programs at four-year colleges, a minority doctoral loan forgiveness plan, and increased funding for remedial and compensatory education. In New York, LaGuardia Community College and Bronx Community College have instituted entire programs to increase minority retention and success. All of these programs have features in common, including creative leadership, systematic planning, increased resources, and sustained effort. (EJV)