Dissertation Proposal Announcement Ed.D. Program: Sandile Chad Manzini, MSW “Lifting As We Climb The Ivory Tower: An Exploration Into Black Men’s Journey In Higher Education Leadership – A Grounded Theory Study”

The purpose of this dissertation is to examine the underrepresentation and lived experiences of Black men in higher education leadership, particularly at institutions with predominantly White student populations. The study examines systemic challenges, such as racism, microaggressions, tokenism, and respectability politics, which contribute to racial battle fatigue and hinder career advancement, using a constructivist grounded theory qualitative approach. Throughout the research, critical theoretical frameworks such as Black Critical Theory will be used to contextualize the experiences of Black men in higher education leadership, highlighting anti-Blackness and intersectionality. Mentorship, continuous learning, and cultural authenticity are crucial to academic leadership success, and these factors will be explored during semi-structured, in-depth interviews. I aim to develop a theoretical framework for Black men’s leadership, providing a mechanism to address the unique challenges Black men face in leadership positions. To dismantle systemic barriers and promote diversity in academic leadership, this study offers a roadmap for empowering Black men and other underrepresented groups by advocating inclusive leadership frameworks, equitable policies, and intentional support systems.