"An African American Narrative of Underrepresentation in Academia: Strategies for Securing and Sustaining Fulfilling Faculty Careers"

• In Event: Situating Academic Strategies in Higher Education

Abstract

NCBS Conference Proposal
Conference Theme: “SANKOFA: Celebrating Solidarity, Power, and Pan-Africanism in the 21st Century”

Presenter: Dr. Marjorie M. Fuller
Retired WVU administrator, faculty member, and Director, WVU Center for Black Culture and Research

Contact Information:
Name: Dr. Marjorie M. Fuller
Email: marjoriegfulmail@gmail.com
Phone: (304) 376-7324

Abstract:
Inspired by the Sankofa principle, which emphasizes looking back to reclaim wisdom from the past to create a better future, this presentation delves into the historical and contemporary challenges of tenured African American faculty in academia. Utilizing qualitative research grounded in Critical Race Theory (CRT), the presentation explores systemic barriers and critical events that shape career trajectories. It offers actionable strategies for aspiring faculty and institutional leaders to address underrepresentation, ensure equitable practices, and foster inclusive academic environments. Attendees will gain insight into leveraging lessons from the past to build a more diverse and just future for African Americans in higher education.

Learning Objectives:
Understand the historical and systemic factors contributing to the underrepresentation of African American faculty in academia.
Explore compelling personal narratives from tenured Black faculty that combine personal resilience and institutional advocacy to overcome the challenges of institutional racism in higher education.
Learn actionable recommendations inspired by the Sankofa philosophy for creating supportive pathways for African American faculty.

Relevance to the Theme: "Sankofa"
This presentation embodies the Sankofa principle by analyzing the historical context of African American underrepresentation and its enduring impact on academia. By revisiting historical inequities and drawing on the lived experiences of African American faculty, the presentation outlines a forward-looking framework for building equitable systems in higher education. It provides attendees with tools and strategies to reclaim agency, honor diversity, and embrace inclusivity as a foundation for the future.

Presentation Format
Type: Oral Presentation
Duration: 60 minutes (40-minute presentation + 20-minute Q&A) or time as assigned
Target Audience: Higher education administrators, faculty, DEI practitioners, and early-career academics.

Overview of Content
Introduction
The Sankofa framework: Learning from the past to inspire future action.
Contextualizing the underrepresentation of African American faculty in higher education.
Discussion of the state of DEI in America today
Key Findings
Analysis of systemic and cultural barriers faced by African American faculty.
Insights into the racial climate in predominantly White institutions and its impact on tenure and promotion.
Strategies and Implications
Individual strategies for resilience and success, including mentorship and advocacy.
Institutional recommendations for fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Call to Action
Leveraging the Sankofa principle to create lasting change in academic institutions.
Encouraging participants to take proactive steps in building inclusive academic futures.

Presenter Bio
Dr. Marjorie M. Fuller is an academic and diversity advocate with over 25 years of experience in higher education. Holding a doctorate from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, her work focuses on addressing systemic inequities and empowering underrepresented groups. Her research bridges historical analysis with practical strategies to promote equity and inclusion in academia.

Contact Information
Name: Dr. Marjorie M. Fuller
Email: marjoriegfulmail@gmail.com
Phone: (304) 376-7324

Author

• Marjorie M Fuller, West Virgina University