Empowering Voices: Perspectives and Experiences of Latino and Black Men in Minority Serving Institutions’ Male Success Initiatives
This qualitative dissertation investigates the experiences of men of color participating in Male Success Initiatives (MSIs) and examines the impact these initiatives have on their undergraduate experiences. Central to the study are two main research questions: How do MSIs influence and shape the experiences of men of color participants? And, how does participation in MSIs support or enhance their development in academics, leadership, and personal growth? This study is grounded in Yosso’s (2005) Community Cultural Wealth (CCW) model, which explored how various forms of capital—Aspirational, Familial, Linguistic, Navigational, Resistant, and Social—are utilized by participants to successfully navigate their college experiences. Employing a phenomenological design, the research includes individual and focus group interviews to gather in-depth qualitative data. The findings indicate that while Yosso’s CCW model effectively highlights the use of these established forms of capital, the study also reveals the necessity of introducing two additional forms of capital: Self-Reliance and Sense of Worth. These new forms of capital offer further insight into how men of color cultivate empowerment and self-esteem throughout their academic journeys. The research findings demonstrate that MSIs significantly contribute to the development of Social Capital by helping participants build networks and communal spaces, providing positive support, and engaging with institutional agents. Aspirational Capital is enhanced as MSIs assist participants in focusing on their goals and ambitions. Familial Capital is evidenced through the role of MSIs as familial spaces that provide foundational support for success. Participants leverage Navigational Capital to utilize their skills and resources to overcome adversity. Resistant Capital is drawn upon as participants use their experiences of resistance to navigate and overcome barriers. Self-Reliance Capital is fostered by MSIs, which support participants in developing a sense of empowerment and independence. Finally, Sense of Worth Capital is strengthened through MSIs, which enhance participants' self-esteem and identity, contributing to their academic pursuits. This study connects these findings to Yosso’s CCW model, illustrating the profound impact of MSIs on recognizing and nurturing diverse forms of capital among Black and Latino men. The results align with existing literature on the importance of targeted support programs in promoting retention, success, and leadership development. By introducing the concepts of self-reliance and sense of worth capitals, this research broadens the framework and provides a more comprehensive understanding of the experiences of men of color. The implications for policy include advocating for increased funding for MSI programs, supporting their mission at both state and federal levels, and creating supportive legislative frameworks. For practice, institutions should adopt a holistic approach to student support, integrating strong mentorship and leadership training into MSI programs. The research emphasizes the need for further exploration of how various forms of capital can be cultivated to support men of color in higher education. Future research should consider longitudinal studies to assess long-term impacts, comparative analyses between participants and non-participants, and expanding the demographic scope of MSI research to ensure a comprehensive understanding. Refining the CCW framework with an intersectional and global perspective, and incorporating new forms of capital, will enhance the support and inclusivity for men of color in higher education.
Black College Men, Higher Education, Latino College Men, Multicultural, Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education, Education
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