An Examination of Sense of Belonging in Second Generation Afro-Caribbean College Women at a Hispanic-Serving Institution

Authors

  • Emmanuela Stanislaus Miami CodePath Local, USA
  • Amanda Wilkerson University of Central Florida, USA
  • Lynell Hodge University of Central Florida, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/bhncqt60

Keywords:

Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), Afro-Caribbean, second generation, sense of belonging, intersectionality

Abstract

Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) are classified by the percentage of the institution’s student population who self-identify as Hispanic (US Department of Education, 2021). While HSI designations are supposed to further support minoritized students, researchers studying HSIs have identified the need for more direct support. To further the conversation about the role HSIs play in the larger educational landscape we facilitated a case study that examined the experiences of second-generation Afro-Caribbean female students attending an HSI. This project aimed to analyze thoughtfully and intentionally in the hopes of highlighting the impact students' sense of belonging can have on their connection to campus. This qualitative case study evaluated the experiences of second-generation Afro-Caribbean female students and was guided by the following question: How can HSIs create a sense of belonging for second-generation Afro-Caribbean female students? Results highlight assessing sense of belonging among African Diasporic college at HSIs often may be excluded.

Author Biographies

  • Emmanuela Stanislaus, Miami CodePath Local, USA

    Dr. Emmanuela Stanislaus is the founder of Dr. Emmanuela Consulting which supports the success of women of color graduate students. Prior to starting Dr. Emmanuela Consulting, she spent over 17 years in higher education administration with progressive professional experience within large research I institutions. Her research centers on the experiences of Black college women, campus climate, first-generation students, and examining intersections of race, ethnicity, and gender.

  • Amanda Wilkerson, University of Central Florida, USA

    AMANDA WILKERSON, EdD, is a dynamic force in academia, relentlessly probing the depths of K-20 education to elevate human potential. A beacon for equity and excellence, she's reshaping the higher education landscape through her unwavering commitment to collaboration, community engagement, and transformative action. At the University of Central Florida's College of Community Innovation and Education, Dr. Wilkerson shines as an Assistant Professor, pushing boundaries and igniting change. Email: amanda.wilkerson@ucf.edu

  • Lynell Hodge , University of Central Florida, USA

    LYNELL S. HODGE, EdD, Lynell Hodge is a practitioner-scholar with two decades of higher education experience. Her research focus includes stress, vicarious/secondary trauma, mentoring, and culturally responsive pedagogical practices. Dr. Hodge has published several peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and presents at conferences regularly. Dr. Hodge earned her Doctorate from the University of Central Florida in Higher Education and currently serves as a Training Specialist who champions professional development for university faculty and staff. Email: lynell@ucf.edu

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Published

2024-09-22