BLACK WOMEN’S ACADEMIC AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION: AN AUTOETHNOGRAPHIC STUDY

Authors

  • Angela D. Coker University of Missouri - St. Louis
  • Claire Martin University of Missouri - St. Louis
  • Jennifer Culver University of Missouri - St. Louis
  • Crystal Johnson Johnson University of Missouri - St. Louis

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.12957/periferia.2018.33714

Keywords:

black women, education, empowerment, leadership

Abstract

This paper highlights the results of an autoethnographic qualitative study designed to explore the experiences of four Black women living in the United States who used their own life journeys to explore and analyze factors that shaped their academic development, and gravitation toward higher education and leadership. Autoethnography and elements of Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR), were used in the design of this study, in addition Black Feminist Thought (Collins, 1990) which served as a theoretical framework. Five themes emerged from the data:  (1) Family Expectations and Support; (2) Self-Efficacy (3) Importance of Role Models; (4) Resilience in Dealing with Stereotypes; and (5) Multiple Responsibilities (self, family, and community).  Recommendations for future research regarding Black women’s academic and leadership development are made.

Author Biography

Crystal Johnson Johnson, University of Missouri - St. Louis

Crystal Johnson, B.S.W., is pursuing a Masters’ degree in Social Work at the University of Missouri St. Louis and eagerly anticipating graduation in December 2016. Crystal has developed leadership and managerial skills while serving several years within the business industry in St. Louis, MO and in the U.S. Army. She intends to use her training and educational experiences to position herself to make in difference in the lives of individuals and families addressing personal development issues such as self-esteem, self-efficacy, and problem solving.  Her research interest includes systemic racism and its impact on personal growth and development. Crystal currently works as Social Worker helping to improve life for older adults and their families as they navigate the dynamics of aging.

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Published

10.07.2018

How to Cite

Coker, A. D., Martin, C., Culver, J., & Johnson, C. J. (2018). BLACK WOMEN’S ACADEMIC AND LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION: AN AUTOETHNOGRAPHIC STUDY. Revista Periferia UERJ, 10(2), 44–66. https://doi.org/10.12957/periferia.2018.33714

Issue

REVISTA PERIFERIA, V. 10, N. 2, jul./dez. 2018 - Mulheres Líderes em Educação: das periferias aos centros / Women Leading Education: from margins to centers

Section

Dossier

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