First Among Equals: The Lived Experiences of College Presidents of Color at PWIs

College presidents serve as key members of a campus administration, but college presidents of color are in the minority, representing only 25% of all campus CEOs (Melidona et al., 2023). The lack of access to higher education for people of color, historically coupled with systemic oppression and racism in the United States, has created an unwelcoming and exclusive environment on many college campuses today (Bitar et al., 2022; Pulley, 2022). As progress is made toward more racially inclusive communities, college presidents of color at Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs) stand uniquely positioned to drive transformative change and expand opportunities for all students (Davis & Greenlee, 2023). This phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of college presidents of color who were the first to serve in their roles at PWIs as they confronted racism and advanced diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) priorities. This study was guided by the following research question: What are the lived experiences of individuals who are serving as first-time presidents of color at PWIs? Depth interviews with presidents of color (N=12), reflective questionnaires (N=6), and document analysis (N=30) comprised the data sources for this study. Findings revealed that college presidents of color face numerous challenges, microaggressions, and higher performance expectations as they seek to advance their institutions by reframing DEI efforts so all students may thrive in inclusive environments. These findings may inform institutions' understanding of how to support current and aspiring presidents of color at PWIs.