| Contemporary higher education is becoming more diversified, both in student populations and the ranks of faculty and staff. However, that same level of diversification does not extend to the upper echelon of higher education administration. The following research examines African Americans in positions of higher education administrative leadership and the obstacles that prevent advancement to those positions. The study utilizes a qualitative ethnographic approach and examines the experiences and perceptions of 10 African American leaders in higher education. Their experiences and perceptions are analyzed with five themes ultimately emerging. These themes of 1) insufficient representation of African Americans in higher education administration, 2) insufficient opportunities for mentorship of African American administrators, 3) overall isolation of African American Administrators, 4) various socio-economic barriers that impede educational obtainment and career advancement, and 5) institutionalized cronyism and elitism that hinders promotion of African American administrators represent barriers or obstacles that hinder African Americans from ascending the ivory tower of higher education administrative ranks. The recommendations in this study include further research about African Americans in higher education administrative leadership. Further study may potentially aid in the creation of programs aimed at increasing the advancement of minorities in leadership roles at higher education institutions. |
