ERIC Number: ED670444
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 154
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3023-3163-2
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Empowering Excellence: A Qualitative Exploration of Success Strategies for Black Women Vice Presidents of Student Affairs at Predominantly White Institutions
Mya Walker Lawrence
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, University of Kansas
This study explores the success strategies employed by Black women to overcome the concrete ceiling and attain Vice President of Student Affairs (VPSA) roles at predominantly white institutions (PWIs). The findings aim to inform the development of policies and procedures that address challenges related to access and visibility for Black women at the institutional level. Seven participants took part in semi-structured interviews lasting 60-90 minutes to explore a range of topics, including their career paths to becoming VPSAs, the impact of support systems on their journeys, and the strategies they used to overcome barriers in their careers. The theoretical framework of this study is grounded in Black Feminist Thought (BFT), particularly the concept of the "outsider within" as articulated by Patricia Hill Collins. This framework highlights the unique position of Black women at the intersection of race and gender oppression, where they are invited into predominantly white institutions but remain marginalized and voiceless. The findings of this study show that Black women VPSAs don't start their higher education journeys knowing they will pursue a career as VPSAs. Internal and external support systems are pivotal in shaping their career trajectories towards VPSA roles, with positive and negative influences at various points. Lastly, Black women VPSAs at PWIs have consistently demonstrated resilience and determination, emphasizing the significant role of advocacy in their career journeys. The data from this study illuminated common themes among Black women VPSAs at PWIs regarding strategies and lessons learned during their career trajectories. Specifically, the findings revealed the need to become a generalist in the field, the importance of lifting as they climb, balancing love and family, and the impact of authenticity on career trajectory and student connections throughout their career journeys. Additionally, this study provides implications for practice, suggesting that institutions and associations implement strategies and policies to positively influence Black Women's experiences to the VPSA role at PWIs. [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.]
Descriptors: Success, African Americans, Females, Women Administrators, College Administration, Student Personnel Workers, Predominantly White Institutions, Career Pathways, Barriers, Resilience (Psychology), Coping, Racism, Gender Bias, Influences
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A