African American Females in Senior-Level Executive Roles Navigating Predominately White Institutions: Experiences, Challenges, and Strategies for Success

• In Event: Roundtable Session 30
  In Roundtable Session: Race, Gender, and Leadership

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the experiences, challenges and strategies for success of African American female senior-level executives at predominately white institutions (PWIs). This qualitative study used a phenomenological perspective to address the research questions (Guido, Chávez, & Lincoln, 2010; Perl & Noldon, 2000). The conceptual framework for the study was based black feminist theory, biculturalism and intersectionality (Barrett, Cervero, & Johnson-Bailey, 2003; Collins, 2000; Du Bois & Edwards, 2007). Black feminist theory addressed the lived experiences of African American women (Collins, 2000); intersectionality highlighted the oppression of African American women (Collins, 2000) and biculturalism explained how African American women adapt to be successful (Barrett, et al., 2003).

Author

• Stella L. Smith, The University of Texas - Austin