This qualitative study explored the influence of racialized lived experiences (RLEs) on equitable decision-making among philanthropic leaders, employing a narrative inquiry approach. It examined how diversity within philanthropy, beyond tokenistic representation, can introduce a wide range of perspectives that enhance equitable decision-making…

College-choice research typically analyzed students based on a single perspective of their identity rather than from an intersecting perspective. However, such research fails to account for the experience of people with intersecting identities determining their college options. This study explores (a) the factors that contributed to the…

Although the co-taught classroom is the fastest-growing inclusion model in U.S. public schools, an increasingly-diverse student population coupled with the continued overrepresentation of students of color in special education threatens to undermine its potential as an inclusive space that ensures success for all students. This multiphase,…

Professional decision-making concerning the nature and quantity of schoolchildren's educational, counseling, and remedial experiences is critical to children's success. How are aspects of students' race and socioeconomic status associated with teachers' and counselors' recommendations regarding the supportive and remedial services provided to…

In the past five decades, white men have predominately held the superintendent position (Grogan & Nash, 2021; Tallerico & Blount, 2004). Women have gradually gained access to this position, but women of color still have to navigate access to this crucial seat in public education (Grogan & Nash, 2021). Relatedly, public schools have…

This dissertation builds on literature centering first-generation college students (FGCS) with immigrant parentage in order to develop an understanding of how many of their unique and intersectional experiences may function as assets that could promote retention and degree completion. The sample is comprised of 30 FGCS who are also first- or…

The purpose of this descriptive multiple case study was to examine the recruitment process of Black student-athletes in revenue generating sports who have chosen to compete for a White head coach and a predominately White institution. This study aimed to provide common themes among Black student-athletes in relation to who and what influenced…