Join a talk and Q&A session led by Juana Hollingsworth - who recently defended her dissertation and will be confirmed as Dr. Juana Hollingsworth in May 2025. 

This HESA Talk features findings from the dissertation research of Juana Hollingsworth, an upcoming graduate of the higher education doctoral program at Morgan State University, which centers the leadership experiences of Black undergraduate women who serve in Black Student Union (BSU) executive roles at Predominantly White Institutions (PWIs). Using critical narrative inquiry and guided by Black Feminist Thought and Racialized Equity Labor frameworks, the study explores how Black women student leaders navigate institutional barriers, create culturally affirming spaces, and persist in leadership despite racialized and gendered challenges. Drawing on the study’s findings, this talk will offer actionable strategies for fostering more equitable environments, ensuring meaningful recognition, and sustaining culturally affirming leadership pathways—particularly in an era of increasing resistance to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts for Black women student leaders.

The Morgan State University Higher Education and Student Affairs (HESA) Talk Series brings together our community of scholars and practitioners to discuss current research and trends in the field. These talks are open to the public and hosted on Zoom. These talks are not recorded (unless otherwise noted).