The Experiences of Three Chief Diversity Officers at a Predominantly White Institution: A Case Study

• In Event: Thursday Roundtable Session 2:30 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Voices Across Campus: Understanding Stakeholder Perspectives in Higher Education (Table 21)

Abstract

This study explores the experiences of three chief diversity officers at a predominantly white institution in the Southeastern United States. Using Ahmed’s Diversity Framework, interviews, document analysis, and demographic data were coded and reviewed to answer two research questions: 1) what influence does the CDO’s perceived support of institutional diversity efforts have on their sense of progress at a PWI and 2) how does their career journey impact their perception of progress? Overall, results from this study support the argument for improved institutional efforts to recruit, retain and support Chief Diversity Officers and further emphasizes the need for continued research on their subjective experiences, challenges, and backgrounds.

Authors

• Emma Reabold, South Carolina Independent Colleges & Universities

• Patrick Bennett, University of South Carolina - Aiken

• Celina-Maria Espinosa, University of South Carolina

• Henry Tran, University of South Carolina