The Impact of an All-Black Research Team on Black Graduate Students' Perceptions of Black Identity, Sense of Belonging, and Community

• In Event: Creating Inclusive Spaces: Diversity, Equity, and Belonging in Graduate Education

Abstract

This paper delves into the experiences of Black graduate students engaged in a multi-institutional, national research project. Specifically, it explores how their engagement in race-focused research with an all-Black team impacts their perceptions of Black identity, sense of belonging and community. In-depth interviews were collected from participants. Data analysis used Cross’s (1991) Nigrescence Black Identity Development Theory. Results indicate that Black graduate students’ engagement in this space positively impacts their perceptions of racial identity, sense of belonging and community. This space has proven beneficial in providing resources to navigate discourse around their Black identity without feeling isolated or othered. Results also indicate a shared appreciation for being in community with and receiving mentorship from Black faculty.

Authors

• Lul M. Baba, University of Illinois at Chicago

• Jennifer Dawn Adams, University of Calgary

• Terrell R Morton, University of Illinois at Chicago