Uniquely called: African American community college presidents promoting equitable student success

Abstract

AbstractBlack community college presidents are not exempt from racialized experiences as they promote equitable student success. This study explores the unique experiences of Black leaders who advocate for policies, practices, and procedures that promote equity and social justice at their institutions and in their communities. Together, applied critical leadership (ACL) and the principles of critical race theory (CRT) underpin the research study presented in this chapter and helped inform the interview protocol and identify strategies the presidents use to promote equitable change. In this chapter, five African American presidents share how they conceptualize equity‐driven leadership and how their racialized identities inform their approaches to improving equitable outcomes for all students, particularly students of color. Presidents shared strategies that any community college leader can use to demonstrate their commitment to social justice and advance the practice broadly.