Examining the Intersections of Race, Belongingness, and Retention Within Honors Programs

• In Event: 29.018 - Pathways to Achieving Equal Educational Opportunities for Teachers and College Students of Color

Abstract

Honors programs are championed for providing deeper connections for students and have particular benefit for students of color. Yet, honors programs are by nature exclusive and there are often allegations of elitism and poor outreach to marginalized student populations. This study explores the relationship between sense of belonging and institutional commitment for honors and non-honors students across racial identities with a sample of 2,569 undergraduate students. Results demonstrate significant differences for institutional commitment across the intersection of race and honors enrollment and a strong positive relationship with sense of belonging. Our discussion highlights a need to improve belongingness among students of color in honors programs in order to increase institutional commitment.

Authors

• Jason C. Garvey, University of Vermont

• Amanda N. Ingram, The University of Alabama

• Laura A Sanders, The University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa