More Than Just Learning Leadership: A Women's Leadership Program as a Counter-Space at a Predominantly White Institution

• In Event: Illuminating the Diversity of Women's Experiences in Higher Education

Abstract

Utilizing Critical Race Feminism (CRF), this study demonstrates a cohort-based Woman’s Leadership Program (WLP) for undergraduate first-generation woman and woman of color at a 4-year private PWI in the Western U.S. is more than just learning about leadership and operates as a counterspace that contributes to the retention and success of the program participants. The study participants shared how their involvement in WLP led to the ability to cope with microaggressions, validation, an increased sense of belonging, and an enhanced college experience. This research emphasizes the importance of creating and sustaining counterspaces for woman of color at PWIs and encourages higher education professionals to work towards making PWIs more equitable and validating for woman of color.

Authors

• Lauren Rebekkah Contreras, University of Denver

• Trisha Teig, University of Denver

• Michele Anne Tyson, University of Denver