"Diversity" and Interest Convergence: Interrogating Relationships Between Diversity Structures and Student Outcomes in Higher Education

• In Event: AERA Virtual Poster Session
  In Virtual Poster Session: Division J - Postsecondary Education Virtual Poster Session

Abstract

Higher education institutions (HEIs) face cultural mandates to enact structures and policies supporting ‘diversity.’ However, literature on interest convergence suggests these structures may neither remain aligned with diverse students’ educational interests, nor improve these students’ outcomes. Using a nationally representative sample of 234 U.S. HEIs, I quantitatively operationalize interest convergence to demonstrate that diversity, equity, and inclusion offices are predicted by organizational isomorphism, but, in turn, are less predictive of improvements in Black students’ outcomes, as compared to similar analyses for African-American Studies programs. I argue that DEI offices reflect a discourse that accrues status for HEIs, but is less predictive of improvements in diverse students’ outcomes. Instead, HEIs should prioritize identity-specific programs and structures for racially minoritized students.

Author

• Hannah K. D'Apice, Stanford University
  Presenting Author