An Examination of Racial Disparities in College Athletics Leadership: A Study of Social and Cultural Forces Impacting Pathways to Athletic Directorship in Collegiate Athletics

Abstract

This qualitative dissertation critically examines the persistent racial disparities in collegiate athletics leadership, specifically focusing on the underrepresentation of Black professionals in Athletic Director roles. Guided by Critical Race Theory, Systemic Racism Theory, and Pierre Bourdieu's concepts, this study explores pathways and barriers through semi-structured interviews with current Black athletic directors, supplemented by analysis of public materials. Thematic analysis revealed systemic bias, exclusionary hiring networks, cultural taxation, and microaggressions. Mentorship emerged pivotal yet scarce, highlighting embedded systemic barriers. Findings suggest policy interventions, including formalized mentorship programs, unbiased hiring protocols, and diversity accountability measures, advocating for transformative institutional changes in collegiate athletics leadership.