Recruitment and retention of faculty of color in Oklahoma

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: This study focuses on the recruitment and retention of faculty of color in Oklahoma. Although the study is written in its formal context, an additional documentary film component mirrors the written dissertation. Twenty-four professors and administrators of color discuss some of the difficulties associated with being in the minority at predominately white higher education institutions. The general focus is to improve the recruitment and retention process of higher education institutions seeking to diversify their faculties and staffs.

Findings and Conclusions: Faculty and administrators of color address the need for higher education institutions to modify their faculties and staffs to reflect the rising numbers of students of color entering colleges and universities in the state. These members of the academy offer advice to people of color seeking employment. They also make suggestions to policymakers regarding the need to hold academy officials accountable for the implementation of practices associated with increasing the diversity of its employees.