The "Other" Women: What About the Experiences of Women Faculty of Color in Community Colleges?

• In Event: 61.021 - The Role of Women in Our Lives

Abstract

Community colleges (CC) play a crucial role in the U.S., serving nearly half of the undergraduate population. CC have a far higher representation of students from marginalized groups, which includes women, minorities, and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Unfortunately, CC faculty do not represent their student demographics.

Critical research on the intersections of gender, race and class on women faculty of color (WFofC) largely addresses the experience of those in 4-year institutions. To date, the scholarship on the experiences of WFofC in community colleges is nearly non-existent. This qualitative study offers in-depth insight into the experiences of 37 WFofC who represent 11 different CC. Findings validate not only their presence in academe, but also celebrate their work as committed educators.

Author

• Truc HaMai, CSULB