Experiences of recruitment and retention in academia: A collaborative autoethnography of early-career faculty members of color

Abstract

Background

Recruitment and retention of diverse faculty in schools of nursing continues to be an important challenge but little has been written from the perspectives of early-career faculty of color on their decision to join academia and their retention.

Purpose

We aim to understand the perspectives of a cluster hire of early-career faculty of color on their recruitment, mentorship and support received, and resources needed for long-term retention.

Methods

Five faculty members conducted a joint autoethnography of their perspectives through recruitment, hiring, and first year as faculty. Two group discussions were analyzed for emergent themes using thematic analysis, maintaining reflexivity.

Discussion

Four themes were identified: Intentionality to diversity faculty, Plan for professional development, Clear antiracism diversity equity and inclusion standards, and Retention enablers and barriers.

Conclusion

We provide strategies (e.g., targeted resources, diverse cluster hires, building community) to inform recruitment and retention of early-career faculty of color.