Abstract
Global mobility has intensified in the 21st century, including migration for higher education. U.S. colleges and universities now enroll increasingly diverse student bodies; however, the proportion of faculty of color remains comparatively low. This pattern is evident within the Minnesota State (MinnState) system. This study investigates the perspectives and experiences of faculty of color regarding recruitment, retention, and institutional support. Using a qualitative design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 9 faculty members across 5 MinnState universities. Findings indicate incremental progress in diversifying and supporting the professoriate, alongside persistent gaps in recruitment pipelines, retention practices, and institutional support for teaching and scholarship. The study identifies thematic areas, including belonging and promises during recruitment; networking and mentorship for retention; and support for workload, recognition, and scholarly opportunities, that can inform system‑level and campus‑level strategies. Suggestions are offered for administrators, human‑resources personnel, and search committees to strengthen equity‑minded recruitment, retention, and support structures across MinnState.
Recommended Citation
Masibo, M. (2026). Recruitment and Retention of Faculty of Color in the Minnesota State (MinnState) System: Perspectives and Experiences. The Journal of Advancing Education Practice, 7(1). https://openriver.winona.edu/jaep/vol7/iss1/7
