Amplifying Voices of First Generation Black College Students: Breaking Barriers (Research, Theory, and Practice Within Academic Affairs)

The experiences of Black first-generation college students are often overlooked in academic literature, despite their significant presence and influence in higher education. This groundbreaking monograph fills a crucial gap by addressing the unique challenges, strengths, and narratives of this diverse population. By rejecting a one-size-fits-all approach, Amplifying Voices of First Generation Black College Students unpacks the intersectional complexities of being Black and first-generation, providing a nuanced understanding of their collegiate journeys.

This collection explores themes such as the role of family and mentorship, financial challenges, and the cultural capital that Black first-gen students bring to academic spaces. It also examines their experiences across different institution types, including HBCUs. Beyond the undergraduate experience, the book extends its analysis to graduate and professional schools, ensuring a comprehensive representation of the Black first-gen journey. A standout feature is the critical examination of media portrayals, including a fresh analysis of Black first-gen characters in Power Book II. 

Designed for scholars, educators, policymakers, and advocates, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of equity and inclusion in education. It empowers readers with actionable insights and strategies to better support Black first-generation students, making it an invaluable resource for advancing institutional and cultural change.

La’Tonya Rease Miles is an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Educational Leadership and Counseling Psychology at Santa Clara University.

Yolanda Wiggins is an Associate Professor in the in the Department of Sociology & Interdisciplinary Social Sciences at San Jose State University.