How Black Women Higher Education Leaders Navigate Barriers at Predominantly White Institutions

• In Event: Narrating Black Girl Space and Womanhood

Abstract

This study aims to amplify Black women higher education leaders’ counterstories of barriers they face in leadership, their responses to overcome those barriers, and their support systems. Data collected via individual interviews with a national sample of 19 Black women in leadership positions at predominantly white institutions (PWIs) in the US were analyzed using narrative analysis methods. Participants’ counternarratives depict rich individual experiences that nonetheless point to common threads of systemic barriers, interwoven oppressions of racism and sexism, and resistance towards them. Furthermore, they demonstrate how participants’ strategic thinking, actions, and support systems help them succeed despite the barriers. We conclude with a discussion of PWIs’ responsibilities for promoting and supporting Black women leaders.

Authors

• Rachel Boguille Sam, University of Louisiana at Lafayette

• Sebnem Cilesiz, University of Louisiana at Lafayette

• Roslin E. Growe, University of Louisiana at Lafayette