A Phenomenological Study of the Lived Experiences of AA Business School Deans at AACSB Accredited Predominantly White Institutions

Abstract

African American (AA) deans are disproportionately underrepresented at Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) (Cataldi, Fahimi, Bradburn & Zimbler, 2005). To better understand the experiences of AA deans at Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accredited PWIs, and ultimately help increase their presence at such institutions, we studied five retired AA deans. Data was collected through interviews. For data analysis we utilized a combination of memos, categorizing, and connecting strategies to identify emergent themes within the data (Maxwell, 2013). We found that racism, racial tension, and the understanding of race relations issues exist at PWIs. The deans suggested that current or prospective AA deans should minimize racial undertones in their demeanor, responses, and reflections while applying for or holding a dean’s position at a PWI.