It's Not Because You're Black: Addressing Issues of Racism and Underrepresentation of African Americans in Academia - Hardcover

by Annie Smith (Author), Orville Blackman (Contribution by)

This book takes a realistic look at the effects of underrepresentation of African Americans in colleges and universities. It highlights local, state, and national consequences facing America's educational future as the country becomes more diverse. It also examines the challenges that face Blacks trying to get into the academy and issues that confront those who penetrate the system. Whether intentional or embedded in the minds of those in American culture, the results of Black underrepresentation in educational settings often carry devastating impacts on African American learners. It affects learners in diverse educational settings as well as the career choices and opportunities for minorities who need them most. An increase in African American professors would not only add diversity on college campuses but also bring a unique perspective to the academy--a situation that would be beneficial to all.

Author Biography

Annie Smith, PhD, is a clinical assistant professor at the University of Alabama. She began her career in broadcast journalism and obtained degrees in psychology, English education, gifted education, and educational psychology. In addition, Smith is a National Board Certified Teacher licensed to teach adolescent and young adult English language arts with further certification in K-12 gifted education. She has been in the education profession for 20 years.