A substantial body of research exists on the origin and pedagogy of Black Studies. However, there is a dearth of empirical research that investigates how racial identity politics profile Black Studies leadership and Black Studies programs at principally white universities. This dissertation tackles this quandary by exploring the long-term effect that the Civil Rights Movement has had on Black Studies at Southwest University (SWU). This critique also explores the role that white supremacy, internalized racism, and color-blind racism play in people's acuity. Thus, a case study with Critical Race Theory (CRT) methodology is utilized.

A total of twenty community members, previous and current Black Studies students, faculty, and administrators were interviewed. Direct observations, journal writing, the inspection of archival documents and participation in legislative proceedings were employed to collect, analyze and interpret the data. Consequently, the research findings indicate that the racial landscape of the state where the study takes place influences the social encounters of Black students who come to SWU with distinct cultural standards, ideologies, economic conditions and characteristics. Equally, the findings point to an attempt by stakeholders to re-arrange Black Studies away from its activist past. This reclassification uncovers the peril of Black leadership and exposes the internal politics that subsist in Black Studies at SWU.

Nevertheless, this study seeks to preserve the historical and intellectual heritage of Black Studies at SWU, influence legislation, contribute to the history of American education and advance intra-racial solidarity. What is more, this research seeks to advance Black Studies at SWU from program to department rank by offering an ideal model that is motivated by a higher calling in Black Studies leadership. In the end, I expect this dissertation to contribute to a better understanding of how race impacts judgments about Black Studies and influences educational leadership in higher education.