Academic Administrators' Beliefs about Diversity

As our nation and society becomes more racially and ethnically diverse, college campuses are experiencing a dynamic shift in the student demographic on campus as well. Purposes of the study were to: (a) analyze the beliefs of kinesiology academic unit leaders (i.e., chairs, directors, heads) regarding faculty and student diversity within their programs and departments and (b) inquire about strategic goals for faculty and student diversification within their programs and departments. The participants were 68 administrators (43 men, 25 women) and all current members of the American Kinesiology Association (AKA) as of 2015. Thematic content data analysis of the open-ended probes exposed the recurrent themes: (a) "advocacy, motives, and actions"; (b) "diversity identified, but rarely defined"; and (c) "history, status, and outlook." Implications of the findings are that issues associated with diversity in kinesiology programs and departments should be addressed with vigor and progressive actions.