UCLA

This study used a mixed-methods approach to investigate how participation in a diversity program based on intergroup contact theory and critical race theory, influences Black male undergraduate perceptions of campus climate, compared with their peers. The methods employed enabled the researcher to measure changes in campus climate satisfaction both before and after a two-quarter cross-racial student-empowerment diversity program using surveys, interview, and document analysis. A comparison group made up of students from the general student population and a control group made up of students who had indicated interest in participating in such a diversity program but had not yet participated in the treatment took the surveys at the beginning and the conclusion of the two quarters. Qualitative and quantitative data sources were analyzed to determine if reasonable conclusions could be made about campus climate perceptions, cross-racial comfort, and cross-racial interactions of the students who had engaged in the intervention versus the students in the control and the comparison groups.

The data suggested that the intervention serves to mitigate disparities in campus climate satisfaction between Black students and other participants: while the intervention positively impacts Black male campus climate perception, it negatively impacts campus climate for non-Black participants. While quantitative data suggested no impact on cross-racial comfort for any of the participants, qualitative data suggested moderate advancements for Black male participants. The findings from the study affirm the positive impact of meaningful intergroup dialogue on campus climate perception for Black male undergraduates.

Implications for higher education administrators and faculty are addressed. Institutional agents need to work to change the culture on their campuses by taking a clear stand against racism, stereotypes and implicit bias. While faculty must commit themselves to mentorship of Black men on their campuses, both faculty and staff must seek ways to implement intergroup dialogue into their classrooms and programs. All of these things must happen if places of higher education are to become spaces where all students thrive and learn across and in spite of differences.