Date Approved

5-6-2021

Embargo Period

5-7-2021

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M. A. Higher Education

Department

Educational Services and Leadership

College

College of Education

Advisor

Wright-Mair, Raquel

Committee Member 1

Carter, Lakeisha

Committee Member 2

Dale, Dianna

Keywords

Awareness, Critical Consciousness, Fraternity, Racial Injustice, Student Development, Whiteness

Subject(s)

College fraternity members--Conduct of life; Critical race theory

Disciplines

Higher Education

Abstract

The purpose of this phenomenological study is to explore the experiences of fraternity members within the higher education system in New Jersey. One major goal of this study was to analyze the level of critical consciousness developed through involvement in a fraternity. While research exists on the fraternity experience in relation to race, and whiteness, not much has been examined to understand the experience of fraternity members in relation to these issues. By expanding this research, fraternity and sorority affairs professionals, student affairs professionals and fraternity national office staff can better understand the fraternity experience in relation to racial injustice awareness and critical consciousness. Findings from this study focused on alumni reflecting on their experience as an undergraduate member and analyzed how their experiences connect to racial injustice awareness. These findings highlight that there exists an alumnus disconnect with the organization in relation to these issues, as well as demonstrate how alumni continue their lifelong learning though the fraternity experience. Recommendations for further research and practice are outlined.

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