Invisible Woman: Institutional Belonging for Undergraduate Mothers of Color

Abstract This opinion piece draws upon Goffman’s (1956) Nonperson Treatment conceptualization to investigate if and how American four-year institutions of higher education foster spaces of belonging for undergraduate mothers of color at their institution. By integrating participant narrative and published works, the author drew upon Walton & Cohen’s (2007) Belonging Uncertainty Theory and Goffman’s (1963) Stigma Theory to frame this study. Specifically, the author examines how the integration of undergraduate mothers of color at their institution can foster belonging and inclusion while increasing retention rates for undergraduate mothers of color with the help of mindful and inclusive campus sponsored actives. Themes include challenges surrounding campus socialization, insufficient campus childcare services, loneliness and isolation, and financial barriers. Recommendations for campus climate and student involvement practices are discussed.