Three Latina School Leaders Pursuing a Doctorate: Stories of Tension and Resiliency in the Workplace, as Doctoral Students, and as Future Academics

• In Event: Race, Ethnicity, and Gender in Doctoral Education

Abstract

This proposal highlights a qualitative case study that focused on Latina doctoral students and their experiences navigating both their career identity in the field of education and a doctoral student identity. The study employed a combination of Critical race theory (CRT) and Latino critical theory (LatCrit) as the theoretical framework and employed pláticas as a method for data collection. The findings highlight the tensions, microaggressions, and deficit thinking encountered in their doctoral studies and places of employment. In addition, the findings highlight resiliency, hope, and community that emerged as sources of inspiration for advocating for social justice both as doctoral scholars and education advocates.

Authors

• Yvette Cantu, Texas State University

• Patricia Rocha, Texas State University