Locating Racial Equity in Institutions of Higher Educations' Plans and Partnerships

• In Event: Building Equity and Maintaining Community Across Global Higher Education

Abstract

This study examines how 26 institutions, working together as part of the Illinois Equity in Attainment Initiative (ILEA), confront structural barriers inhibiting graduation through an explicit focus on race at the organizational level. We catalog institutional racial equity efforts as described in all college and university equity plans and investigate their relationship with ILEA to determine policy commitments, institutional alignment, and resource allocations directed towards Black and Latinx students. Data come from publicly available equity plans, mission statements, and strategic plans. Findings suggest that ILEA-partner colleges and universities target resources towards Black and Latinx students. However, missions, policies, and plans are weakly aligned and considerable variation exists between institutions’ focus and ability to track, monitor, and realize their equity goals.

Authors

• Rachel C. Feldman, NORC at the University of Chicago

• Johanna S Quinn, Fordham University