This sequential explanatory study focuses on two forms of sight: Sankofa (hindsight) and surveillance (close observation or monitoring (Foucault, 1995, 2000; Temple, 2010; Quarcoo, 1972). These two ways of seeing can provide a unique perspective on Black women's career experiences in historically white institutions. I focus on how European intellectual systems "sort" Black women via surveillance (Lyon, 2003; McKittrick, 2006). Through the lens of Plantation Politics--a theoretical framework that attempts to unpack the lived experiences of Black people whose ancestors were enslaved as part of the transatlantic slave trade--this study seeks to understand the interactions between Black women's labor and the institution of higher education (Squire, 2021; Williams & Tuitt, 2021). Critical narrative inquiry guides this research as I use cookhouse conversations to glimpse into the professional lives of Black women working at historically white institutions. It is hoped that this insight will help guide more inclusive processes surrounding opportunities for career advancement, such as hiring, internal promotions, and mentoring programs. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]