A Multi-Site, Embedded Case Study of Black Student Unions: Bridging and Buffering Black Student Experiences

Abstract

This multi-site, embedded case study drew on qualitative data to uncover how Black Student Unions (BSUs) within a large California university system bridged or buffered Black student experiences. The central purpose of this case study was to gain an understanding of the Black students’ experiences within the BSU, framing the overarching research question: How do the university BSUs bridge and/or buffer Black student experiences? The BSUs included in the present study were from state universities from two distinct regions in California: a southern San Joaquin Valley university and a Southern California university campus. This case study informs the reader of the BSU participants’ experiences within the bounded cases. The methods consisted of collecting data such as Instagram social media posts, interviews with staff advisors, and ten student participants—five from both campuses. Participants shared their experiences as the investigator sought to understand the context and the experiences of BSU students on the university campuses. The results of this study fill in research gaps as well as help university administrators, faculty, and staff with the development of best practices for Black students.