"I'll Still Continue to Rise": Black Women's Experiences in Academia

• In Event: Black Women, Feminist Thought, and Education Revolution

Abstract

Black women faculty in Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) experience many challenges related to their racial identities, challenges which often result in low retention rates. This study explored the experiences of three Black women junior faculty navigating those challenges. Data revealed that participants faced issues of fighting the “angry black woman” stereotype, feelings of inadequacy, and navigating the layers of their identities. Data also revealed that the participants responded to those challenges in ways that helped them maintain important aspects of their racial identities. In this paper, we share these women’s experiences to bring new urgency to addressing the issues Black women faculty face. We also share their insights on agency and institutional change, which have important implications for retention.

Authors

• Christy Howard, East Carolina University

• Benjamin Blaisdell, East Carolina University

• Syntia Dietz, East Carolina University