Paths to Persistence and Empowerment: Mentorship, Belonging, and Institutional Barriers for Scholars and Leaders of Color

Session Type: Paper Session

Abstract

This session examines critical factors affecting persistence, belonging, and equity for graduate students and academic leaders of color in predominantly White institutions. Papers include studies on the impact of faculty of color departures on graduate student scholarship, the benefits of a Ph.D. cohort model in fostering resilience for Black students, the challenges Black executive leaders face due to White normativity, and a collaborative program between HBCUs and a PWI that prepares underrepresented students for graduate success. These studies collectively highlight the need for mentorship, community, and systemic change to foster equity in academic spaces.

Sub Unit

• Committee on Scholars of Color in Education

Chair

• Jason K. Wallace, Mississippi State University

Papers

• Faculty of Color Departures: Their Impact on Knowledge - Ryan M Pirtle, Iowa State University; Amanda J. Cordova, North Dakota State University

• Finished and Done: A Collaborative Autoethnography of Four Black PhD Students at a Predominantly White Institution - Anglesia Brown, Wayne State University; Michelle D. Taylor, Wayne State University; Anthony L. Webster, Wayne State University; Treyvon L. Harlin, Wayne State University

• The Open Doors Summer Research Program: Piloting Pathways to Graduate School and Strengthening HBCU Students’ Success - Naseemah Mohamed, University of Virginia; Ayana Conway, Virginia State University; Meya Mongkuo, Indian Health Service