ERIC Number: ED670613
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 171
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3021-2984-0
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: 0000-00-00
Benefits and Trade-Offs: Exploring the Sense of Belonging among Black College Students in Historically White Fraternities and Sororities
Stacey T. Hurt-Milner
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, University of Georgia
The concept of sense of belonging is a critical component of student success, retention, and well-being in higher education, particularly for underrepresented students. This dissertation examines the lived experiences of Black students and explores how sense of belonging impacts their collegiate experiences as members of historically white fraternities and sororities (HWFS). Using a critical lens, this qualitative narrative research draws on Critical Race Theory (CRT) to examine how fraternal structures, practices, and power dynamics within historically white fraternities and sororities shape Black students' lived experiences and sense of belonging. Nine Black students participated in this study, who are fraternity and sorority members of National Panhellenic Conference (NPC) and North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC) organizations. Through narrative interviews, the research explored their personal stories, revealing insights into the benefits, racial interactions, emotional responses, and challenges faced by Black members. Findings highlight that while some participants experienced genuine inclusion and meaningful relationships, others encountered racial microaggressions and systemic biases that undermined their sense of belonging within these spaces. The implications of this research provide critical insights for those seeking to create inclusive environments within fraternal organizations. By applying CRT, this study highlights the systemic barriers that limit a sense of belonging and advocates for structural change, inclusive policy reform, accountability mechanisms, leadership development, and culturally responsive practices. Recommendations for future practice include intentional and comprehensive diversity training, institutional support for cross-collaboration, and the integration of sense of belonging into student leadership frameworks guided by CRT. [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: African American Students, Fraternities, Sororities, Power Structure, Predominantly White Institutions, Racial Composition, Student Experience, Sense of Belonging, Barriers, Racial Factors, Emotional Response, Inclusion, Friendship, Racism, Microaggressions, Critical Race Theory
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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Author Affiliations: N/A