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Doctoral Dissertation Defense
of
Tadarrelle Lett

For the degree of

Doctor of Education
Interprofessional Leadership

Exploring the Effects of Mentorship on Black College Students' Sense of Belonging

January 22, 2026
10:00 a.m.
White Hall 215

Exploring the Effects of Mentorship on Black College Students' Sense of Belonging

The purpose of this qualitative action research study was to understand the effects of mentoring on Black college students’ perception of sense of belonging and what is necessary to create an inclusive environment. Identity development theory and Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs were used as conceptual frameworks to understand Black students’ identity on how institutions can address the ongoing enrollment cliff, access to higher education, and retention by utilizing mentoring initiatives at a predominantly white institution.

Data were collected from Black students within a specific college, e.g., College of Education, at Cranberry University through a semi-structured focus group (n = 4) and survey measuring belonging and types of mentoring engagement. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Four findings were identified in this study. First, Black students reported a higher sense of belonging to campus compared to the college. Second, the legislative environment diminished their identity development and sense of belonging. Third, connection to institutional stakeholders through mostly informal interactions support their academic, emotional, and social presence on campus. Fourth, the duality of students’ racial identity and major were crucial to navigating predominantly white professions.

The results of this study have several implications for university leadership to understand how to support Black students through their collegiate experience. Embedding career exploration and identity development throughout various touchpoints. University leadership must understand how to provide Black students with resources while adhering to legislative restrictions on race-specific scholarships, curricula, and physical spaces.