Centering Men of Color in Higher Education: Constructing Cultural Wealth, Sense of Belonging, and Vulnerability

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 7:45 am - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Critical Examination of Race, Ethnicity, Class, and Gender Roundtable: Supporting Students' Racial Identity Development and Academic Success

Abstract

This phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of Men of Color (MOC) in higher education, using culturally relevant methods of open dialogue and storytelling. Participants constructed knowledge, healed, and shared how universities supported their academic, personal, and leadership development. Grounded in Yosso’s Community Cultural Wealth (CCW) framework, the study highlighted multiple forms of capital and introduced self-reliance and sense of worth as vital to MOC’s success. Findings called for expanded MOC support, holistic institutional practices, and a refined, intersectional CCW framework.

Authors

• Leon P. Strayer, California State Polytechnic University - Pomona

• Reggie Robles, Claremont Graduate University