A Qualitative Study on the Underrepresentation of People of Color as Athletic Directors in NCAA Division I Power 5 Conference Institutions

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96

Minority Groups; Administrators; College Athletics; African Americans; Disproportionate Representation; Racism; Racial Discrimination; Graduation Rate; Job Application; School Policy; Personnel Selection; Equal Opportunities (Jobs)

3794-3480

979-83-7943-480-9

The study addressed the problem of underrepresenting individuals of color as athletic directors at National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I institutions. The qualitative case study aimed to explore why so few people of color work as athletic directors at NCAA Division I schools despite their high participation in college athletics. The study was conducted using qualitative methodology, multiple case study design involving semi-structured interviews and surveys as the data collection methods. The study participants were 10 Black senior-level collegiate athletic administrators and were sampled using purposeful sampling. The data collection methods used were interviews and questionnaires. The data analysis method used was thematic analysis. NVivo software was used to analyze the data. The study's key findings indicate that the main reasons that lead to the underrepresentation of people of color in athletic director positions in NCAA Division I institutions include racism, old boy's network, discrimination, low graduation rate and failure to apply for the jobs. If the findings are implemented, they will contribute to the practice. People of color will be represented in leadership positions in NCAA Division I institutions, and Black student-athletes will be motivated to pursue athletics. It was recommended that NCAA Division I institutions should eliminate racism by introducing new hiring policies that do not discriminate against Blacks, the old boy's network should be abolished, both young and old people should serve in senior positions, Blacks should be encouraged to apply for those positions and have mentorships and friendships with their seniors and there should be diversity, inclusion and equity. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]

As Provided

2023

ED633157