An Analysis of Presidential Pathways of Two African American Males in a Private Historically Black College and University in a Southeastern State

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to capture the experiences and commentaries of current and past African American male presidents of private HBCUs in a southeastern state to discover their pathways to the presidency. The researcher utilized the qualitative method of research, which entailed interviews, content analysis, and document analysis in collecting, interpreting, and presenting the data. The experiences of current and past presidents provided access to a body of knowledge that has not been fully explored or recorded.

This study utilized the qualitative method to examine the presidential pathways of two African American males in private HBCUs. The interviews for this study were semi-structured to allow for flexibility of response and dialogue. Data was recorded using a tape recorder and note-taking. The data collection process ensured the anonymity of the participants. The information obtained was presented in the narrative form for both participants.

Eight main themes emerged that related to the participants obtaining the presidency of a private HBCU. The eight themes are family, role modeling, mentoring relationships, professional experiences, emotional intelligence, sense of service, sense of calling, and making a difference for one's race. Each theme was present in the narratives and interviews for each participant. In effect, the themes were factors in the success of the participants to obtain and maintain their presidency.