A Case Study on the Experiences of Black Men Participating in an African-American Male Initiative at a Post-secondary Institution

• Main Author: Gibson, Michael A., Jr.
• Language: EN
• Published: Lindenwood University 2018
• Subjects: African American studies|Teacher education|Gender studies|Higher education
• Online Access: http://pqdtopen.proquest.com/#viewpdf?dispub=10976527

<p> In the United States, African-American men are dominant in the entertainment industry mainly in sports and music. However, their success in entertainment does not translate to education. Many Black men grow up not having a positive experience in education, thus they do not see its value. However, many see the value in striving after a false sense of masculinity comprised of sex, drugs, money, and crime. This research was conducted to see how effective Black male mentorship through an African-American Male Initiative could be for Black males in a post-secondary institution in providing the positive experience in education that they need. To conduct the study, a questionnaire was provided to the African-American Male Initiative (AAMI) members and an interview was conducted with non-AAMI members and the AAMI Coordinator. The research yielded results showing how the AAMI members&rsquo; college experience was enhanced by being a part of the program. Due to the program, the AAMI members valued education, wanted to pursue a graduate degree, pursued a professional career, and became a leader for young Black males. Based on the results and pervious research, one recommendation the researcher provided was that the AAMI program and programs like AAMI promote more Black men working in education as teachers, counselors, principals, or school district administrators. Another recommendation was to promote HBCUs to participants because research showed that Black males have not only support, but a positive Black male role model. A contributor to the success and motivation of Black males at HBCUs was Black male leadership. According to Gasman (2013), 70% of HBCU presidents were Black males (p. 14). It was important for more post-secondary institutions to incorporate mentorship programs like the AAMI because it engaged Black males and brought them into leadership roles.</p><p>