Experiences of Black Chief Diversity Officers at Predominantly White Institutions during the Anti-Critical Race Theory Movement

This study aims to understand the experiences of Black Chief Diversity Officers (CDOs) at Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) during the anti-Critical Race Theory (CRT) movement. My research focuses on how CDOs experience racism at PWIs, how it influences CDOs' implementation of organizational change, and how the anti-CRT movement affects CDOs' ability to perform in their role. In this research, I will employ a Critical Race Theory theoretical framework for the study that will guide my use of counterstory methods. Using counterstory, I will conduct semi-structured individual interviews with ten CDOs at PWIs in states with anti-CRT laws. Previous research has indicated that the experiences of Black CDOs at PWIs is an understudied topic. Findings from my pilot study suggest CDOs deal with White supremacy, tokenism, and feelings of having to work twice as hard as their fellow senior-level professionals to be seen as an effective leader by the greater campus community. Learning about how Black CDOs address racism and the anti-CRT movement represents a significant knowledge gap in the present literature regarding the daily experiences of Black CDOs. This study will be an important contribution to the existing literature to inform current and future CDOs and other higher education professionals about racism in higher education.