Lived experience, power that a degree cannot give you: a phenomenological study of one Hispanic woman leader in academia

IntroductionStructural racism, bias, and discrimination within institutions of higher education prevent Hispanic women from becoming university leaders and professors, especially when they do not have a formal degree. Hispanic leaders in higher education often have lived experiences based on their cultural values, family connections, and time working in community settings. However, lived experience is not always viewed as an equal qualification to college degrees when it comes to teaching, leading, or managing programs and departments.MethodsThe purpose of this study is to present a case study of one program operations director (leader) working at a University who does not have a terminal or advanced degree but holds the lived and professional experiences of working in community health worker programs with minority and underserved populations. This study examined her experience as a Hispanic female leading in higher education. We used qualitative phenomenological methods grounded in a descriptive case study design to inform our work.ResultsThe themes from the analysis process represent how LE influences the participant’s work as a leader in academia and give insight into how she navigates academia without a college degree.DiscussionHigher education must meet the needs of Hispanic students and leaders. By elevating Hispanic women in leadership positions, even without degrees, institutions of higher education are demonstrating a commitment to Hispanic student support, development, diversity, and culture

Defining case management and outreach: perspectives from community health workers in New Mexico

AbstractCase management (CM) is increasingly used in community settings to support individuals as they transition from one point in their lives to the next. This study sought to explore the perspectives of front-line Community Health Workers CMs working in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The objective of this study was to answer the question ‘How do CHWs define effective CM and outreach?’ A follow-up question was, ‘What are the barriers to conducting CM and outreach?’ Qualitative research methods, Critical Race Theory, and Social Work Theory guided this study. Five CHW CMs participated in a 90-minute focus group. Results present their perspectives on effective CM and outreach. Barriers include limited collaborations, excessive documentation requirements, and communication. Findings demonstrate that what constitutes effective CM and outreach is based on the program and context. Future work must focus on balancing the need for shared definitions and embracing the flexibility required for CMs working on the ground in diverse settings and populations

Defining case management and outreach: perspectives from community health workers in New Mexico

Case management (CM) is increasingly used in community settings to support individuals as they transition from one point in their lives to the next. This study sought to explore the perspectives of front-line Community Health Workers CMs working in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The objective of this study was to answer the question ‘How do CHWs define effective CM and outreach?’ A follow-up question was, ‘What are the barriers to conducting CM and outreach?’ Qualitative research methods, Critical Race Theory, and Social Work Theory guided this study. Five CHW CMs participated in a 90-minute focus group. Results present their perspectives on effective CM and outreach. Barriers include limited collaborations, excessive documentation requirements, and communication. Findings demonstrate that what constitutes effective CM and outreach is based on the program and context. Future work must focus on balancing the need for shared definitions and embracing the flexibility required for CMs working on the ground in diverse settings and populations.</p