Understanding Black Students Experiences through FaithCrit

Authors

P. J. Welch, Harding UniversityFollow
Timothy P. Westbrook, Harding UniversityFollow
Larissa Malone, University North Carolina WilmingtonFollow

Author Biography

Author 1: P.J. Welch is a graduate of Harding University and has presented her research as a McNair Scholar. She has also presented this research at the Stone-Campbell Journal Conference.

Author 2: Timothy Paul Westbrook is the President of York University. He has written works and presented on the intersection of critical race theory and Christian Theology.

Author 3: Larissa Malone is an associate professor of Instructional Technology, Foundations, and Secondary Education , Watson College of Education at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. Dr. Malone co-authored the first article that introduced FaithCrit to critical race scholarship.

Abstract

Abstract

Many faith-based higher education institutions have sought to improve the experiences of Black students. Yet, they often fail to understand Black students' unique experiences. What are the experiences of Black students at a Christian higher education institution? This qualitative study explores the experiences of Black students at one Christian higher education institution, focusing on their social experiences, retention strategies, and faith in their academic journey. Black alumni and current students were interviewed about Black students' experiences and retention at a Christian institution. This study utilizes the theoretical lens of FaithCrit, a new branch within critical race theory that delves into the intersection of religio-spirituality and racial identity. The thematic analysis underscores how Black students' created their own spaces to provide a sense of belonging, the Black students felt there was a lack of support from this institution, there was a strong desire to leave the institution amongst the Black students, and although the faith aspect of the institution was a factor that attracted the students initially, they later found it to be unwelcoming. Discussions include an analysis of these themes using the FaithCrit methodology to provide a deeper understanding of the experiences of Black students at a Christian institution.

Copyright held by

PJ Welch