Date of Conferral

2016

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Management

Advisor

Raghu Korrapati

Abstract

American higher education in general, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in particular, have experienced a 30-year decline in faculty satisfaction, which has had a negative impact on overall institutional effectiveness. The purpose of this phenomenological case study was to explore managerial solutions for faculty satisfaction by applying Herzberg's 2-factor theory to the insights and experiences of 12 tenure-track faculty members at an HBCU in the southeastern United States. Data were collected through semistructured interviews. The results were sorted, coded, and organized using content analysis software into key Herzberg factors that influenced faculty satisfaction at the study site. Work conditions, institutional administration and policies, personal attainment, and the nature of work were the primary themes. One major cause of faculty dissatisfaction was difficulty in teaching underprepared students. The results suggest the institution should focus on faculty development initiatives for effective teaching strategies, develop a faculty on-boarding process, establish an administrative leadership program, and improve the tenure and promotion process. Upon their implementation, such initiatives will promote a positive ambiance at the study site and improve faculty satisfaction and, thus, overall institutional effectiveness. The results are also applicable to similar institutions aspiring to enhance, faculty performance, satisfaction, and organizational excellence. The results of this study also create positive social change by providing managerial research that contributes to the vibrancy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

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