Centennial Honors College
Western Illinois University
Undergraduate Research Day 2014
Podium Presentation
Title: The Third Burd3n: Are there Disadvantages Associated with the African
American Women Faculty on the Campus of Western Illinois University?
Keyahna Curry
Faculty Mentor: F. Erik Brooks
African American Studies
There are very few African American female workers on the campus of Western Illinois
University. Seeing that Western Illinois University is a Predominately White Institute; it is
understandable why this phenomenon is prominent. Due to the rising number of African
American females gaining PhDs and starting careers as professors in the education
system, the researcher will examine the issues black women face as professors. This is
called the “Third Burden” which is used by many researchers to define this
phenomenon. My research will discuss in depth some disadvantages these women face
in their everyday lives. My results will come from 3 interviews that will be conducted,
and from there, the answers from the 3 interviewees will be placed into categories,
based on the disadvantages. The questions will specifically address the issues of
racism and sexism, issues in their professional life and issues they face in their family
life due to their position, and status in the education realm.