Content Description

Nelson, Maurice Deangelo. "Navigating the Margins of Power: A Qualitative Study Examining How Chief Diversity Officers Make Meaning of Their Role Conditions in U.S. Four-Year Institutions," Ed.D. diss., Valdosta State University, 2026. Retrieved from https://hdl.handle.net/10428/7737 ABSTRACT: Chief Diversity Officers (CDOs) have become central to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) initiatives in higher education, yet research continues to document structural conditions that limit their authority, influence, and long-term sustainability. The purpose of this basic interpretive qualitative study was to examine how CDOs at U.S. four-year institutions make meaning of their role conditions and how those interpretations shape their leadership strategies. Guided by a constructivist epistemology and informed by institutional theory, transformational leadership theory, and intersectionality, semi-structured interviews were conducted with senior-level CDOs currently serving or recently serving within five years. Data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis. Findings revealed that participants frequently navigated proximity to executive leadership without corresponding authority, experienced resources as necessary but insufficient for institutional influence, and continuously negotiated professional legitimacy. Participants also described responding to external sociopolitical pressures while managing cumulative emotional and ethical burdens. Findings suggest that the effectiveness and sustainability of CDO roles depend on institutional alignment of authority, resources, organizational placement, and executive leadership support.

Acquisition Type

Deposit

Provenance

Nelson, Maurice via ProQuest on 2026-05-26

Restrictions Apply

No