Examining the Lived Experiences of Native American Students at Predominantly White Institutions

Authors

Zachary Palmer, University of Nebraska - LincolnFollow

First Advisor

Corey Rumann

Date of this Version

Spring 4-20-2018

Citation

Palmer, Z. J. (2018). Examining the lived experiences of Native American students at predominantly white institutions.

Comments

A THESIS Presented to the Faculty of The Graduate College at the University of Nebraska In Partial Fulfillment of Requirements For the Degree of Master of Arts, Major: Educational Administration, Under the Supervision of Professor Corey Rumann. Lincoln, Nebraska: April 13, 2018.

Copyright 2018 Zachary Palmer

Abstract

This qualitative research study sought to examine the lived experiences and sense of belonging of Native American students at a predominantly white institution. Three participants were each interviewed twice for data collection purposes. Findings from data analysis process indicated that establishing and maintaining relationships within the campus community facilitated a sense of belonging and that racial microaggression were present in the campus environment which often made participants feel hesitant to reveal their Native American identity. Recommendations are offered for higher education professionals and areas for future research are noted.

Advisor: Corey Rumann