Promoting Faculty Diversity in U.S. Higher Education Institutions: The Case of Faculty of Color

Abstract

The current landscape of higher education has seen efforts by universities and colleges to promote a sense of belonging and inclusion for students, faculty, and staff. In this study, I investigated faculty diversity in U.S. higher education institutions focusing on faculty of color. Critical Race Theory and Affirmative Action served as the conceptual frameworks for this study. For data collection, I utilized journal articles on Ohio University’s library website, Google Scholar, and the Education Resources Information Center (ERIC); and this lasted between March 2023 and June 2023. I analyzed the data using thematic analysis. The findings of the research revealed a lack of mentorship for faculty of color. Additionally, faculty from underrepresented groups had to navigate their educational institutions on their own without any assistance. Faculty of color also experienced feelings of isolation due to the absence of faculty who shared their background. At the end of the study, I recommended that diversity, equity, and inclusion should not be viewed as merely a checkbox for funding or accreditation purposes. The findings of this study can provide valuable insights for higher education institutions as they strive for diversity, equity, and inclusion.