From Personal Narratives to Transformative Leadership: The Role of Equity Ethics Among HBCU Leaders

This research examines the influence of equity ethics on the leadership of historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), focusing on its impact on student and institutional success in STEM. Equity ethics, rooted in justice and racial equity, shapes decision-making among HBCU leaders. The study explores the leadership paths of twelve Black male and female HBCU presidents and one engineering dean. It highlights how equity ethics, grounded in racialized experiences and gender-specific challenges, guides leadership, particularly in advancing Black students, especially women, in STEM. The equity ethics of HBCU leaders are often deeply rooted in their racialized experiences, and, for Black women leaders, this ethic also encompasses responses to gender-specific challenges and stereotypes. Our findings offer valuable insights for higher education institutions seeking STEM diversification, emphasizing the transformative potential of equity ethics-guided leadership. The study contributes to unlocking the power of equity-driven leadership in broadening STEM participation.