Keywords

Attrition, Administrators, Black Males, COVID-19, Residence Life, Student Affairs

Abstract

This hermeneutic phenomenological study investigated the experiences and perspectives of Black male residence life professionals regarding attrition in student affairs, especially in the context of the COVID-19 global pandemic. In higher education, the phenomenon of high attrition among student affairs professionals is a major concern, with minoritized communities facing unique challenges. This study aimed to fill a gap in the literature by concentrating on the experiences of Black male residence life professionals working at a predominantly White institution in the United States in 2020. The study used Bronfenbrenner's bioecological systems theory as a theoretical framework to understand factors that impact attrition rates. Due to the pandemic and the complexities of institutional racism and microaggressions, Black male residence life professionals faced significant challenges and displayed incredible resolve during an unprecedented higher education crisis, according to this study. These findings are important for devising strategies for recruiting and retaining underrepresented professionals in student affairs.

Completion Date

2023

Semester

Fall

Committee Chair

Walker, Larry J.

Degree

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

College

College of Community Innovation and Education

Department

Educational Leadership and Higher Education

Degree Program

Educational Leadership; Higher Education

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

DP0028014

URL

https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0028014

Language

English

Release Date

December 2024

Length of Campus-only Access

1 year

Access Status

Doctoral Dissertation (Campus-only Access)

Campus Location

Orlando (Main) Campus

Download

Restricted to the UCF community until December 2024; it will then be open access.

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