| The purpose of this qualitative, heuristic study was to explore the experiences of African American women staff in higher education. Specifically, the emphasis was on staff at predominantly White institutions (PWIs) in the Midwest. The experiences of African American women have been studied, but there is a gap in literature on the unique experiences and challenges of African American women staff. Sixteen African American women shared their experiences of being an African American woman staff member at a PWI through surveys and semi-structured interviews. The details of their experiences were analyzed using qualitative research methods to provide participants an opportunity to make meaning of their experiences through critical self-examination and self-reflection. This method was especially important in establishing a voice for women who have historically experienced silence, exclusion, and a sense of powerlessness within the academy.;Findings of the study revealed that African American women staff at PWIs: (a) experienced obstacles to advancement and promotions in the workplace; (b) were impacted through their interactions with colleagues; (c) utilized support systems and coping mechanisms to survive in the workplace; (d) expressed a need for mentoring and role models in the workplace. The results from this study may be used to further discussions regarding how institutions, specifically PWIs, can provide support to African American women staff. The hope is that university leaders will be strategic regarding the inclusion of African American women staff in order to reduce the challenges that promote the feeling of invisibility. |
