The Impact of Social and Academic Integration on Academic Performance and Persistence: An Examination of African American Student Experiences at a Public Predominantly White Institution (PWI)

The purpose of this mixed methods study was to capture the experiences of African American students at a Predominantly White Institution (PWI) in order to bring awareness to the higher education community and leaders to understand their campus environment and maximize the success of their diverse student populations. The sample of this study consisted of 93 student participants who attend a PWI in the Southeastern region of the United States. A concurrent mixed methods design was utilized to explore student social and academic integration. The major findings of this study revealed that the majority of student participants feel a sense of belonging and are satisfied with peer and faculty-student relationships and programmatic support at their PWI. However, one fourth of participants disagree with the positive engagements on campus. The findings of this study confirm that the examined PWI has created an inclusive environment for students of color. Thus, there is a significant need to establish a formal policy and practice for an all-inclusive culture engaging campus environment