Black Males Negotiating Leadership in College

• In Event: 47.084 - The Black Student Experience in Higher Ed

Abstract

This study explored the engagement and leadership experiences of 42 Black males at two different institutions from their engagement in a Black Male Initiative (BMI) program on their respective campus. Three critical findings are discussed. First, students noted that their BMI engagement enhanced their involvement in other organizations on campus. Second, their BMI engagement sparked their desires to serve as leaders on campus and in the community with Black male youth. And, third, the students credited BMI with boosting their academic skills, focus, and performances. These findings indicate that BMI programs can serve as important venues to cultivate social and cultural capital for Black college males.

Author

• Derrick R. Brooms, University of Cincinnati