Black Women in Higher Education: The Department of Political Science
AUTHOR: Angela Pashayan
In 1928, the Department of Political Science was formed under the direction and leadership of Ralph J. Bunche. Bunche argued for the discipline of political science to reflect the needs of the Black community. The department's curriculum encompasses domestic and international politics, theory, and comparative governance worldwide. The lack of women in leadership positions within the Department of Political Science has been a persistent issue since its establishment. However, efforts have been made over the past decade to increase female representation. Currently, there are seven females and nine males serving as associate professors, alongside one male lecturer. Since the department's founding, there has been a significant imbalance with three times as many men in faculty, students, and degree holders. Consequently, there is an urgent need for greater gender diversity in leadership roles within the Department of Political Science. To address the persistent gender imbalance in leadership positions within the Department of Political Science, it is crucial to implement strategies that promote greater female representation.