Investing in Diversity: Enhancing Job Satisfaction among Faculty of Color through Work Environment

Authors

  • Emi M. Kamei Azusa Pacific University, USA
  • Young K. Kim Azusa Pacific University, USA
  • David Edens California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, USA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/k51h9k90

Keywords:

job satisfaction, faculty of color, race/ethnicity, institutional environment, faculty experience

Abstract

Using a quantitative research design, this study examined predictors of job satisfaction for faculty of color, and how these predictors may vary by racial/ethnic background within this population. Overall, this study provided support for previous research indicating lower levels of job satisfaction for faculty of color and highlighted the role of environmental factors associated with their job satisfaction. In particular, we found that institutional characteristics, teaching commitments, and research area of emphasis tended to significantly affect job satisfaction among faculty of color. In contrast to previous research, the results of this study demonstrated that service work was not significantly related to job satisfaction among this population. The study discusses the theoretical and practical implications of the findings

Author Biographies

  • Emi M. Kamei, Azusa Pacific University, USA

    EMI M. KAMEI, Ph.D., serves as a Research Development Officer for the Faculty of Arts and Sciences at Harvard University. She received her Ph.D. from Azusa Pacific University.

  • Young K. Kim, Azusa Pacific University, USA

    YOUNG K. KIM, Ph.D., is a Professor of Educational Leadership at Azusa Pacific University. Her research interests include conditional college impact, college experience and outcomes among minoritized college students, and STEM in higher education. Email: ykkim@apu.edu.

  • David Edens, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, USA

    DAVID EDENS, Ph.D., is a Professor at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. His research has focused on success and learning in higher education among diverse populations including international and non-traditional college learners.

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Published

2025-12-21