Unveiling the Veil: A Phenomenological Exploration of the Lived Experiences of Black Male Faculty Perceived Success in Predominately White Institutions in U.S. Higher Education

Abstract

The study is based on previous research examining the lack of Black male faculty across the United States employed in predominately White post-secondary institutions. This study has examined the faculty status among African Americans and the inclusion of Black male faculty in predominately White institutions (PWI). In addition, this study also explored inequities, challenges and barriers, support systems, and experiences among Black faculty in higher education. The study sought to find answers to the overarching research question of How do the experiences and perceptions of Black male faculty contribute to our understanding of the underrepresentation of Black males in PWIs, and what influences their recruitment, retention, and career progression within academia? Using the Critical Race and Cultural Capital theories, along with Kanter’s Tokenism, this study examined the status of Black male faculty in PWIs across the country and addresses the benefits of having a diverse faculty in our post-secondary institutions.