Spirituality Empowers Black Leadership: A Phenomenological Study of Black Men College Students Leaders

Abstract: In this qualitative study, the spiritual experiences and leadership of 15 Black collegiate men enrolled at higher education institutions were examined. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to understand how Black men student leaders make meaning of spirituality. The first finding described how Black men students make meaning of spirituality to navigate life challenges and empower their leadership. The second finding revealed how Black men student leaders defined spirituality, which was influenced by but not exclusive to their religious beliefs. And the last finding underscored who they were as Black men and leaders, providing context to spirituality's meaning in their leadership experiences. Overall, the central focus of this study was the phenomenon of spirituality and leadership; however, this study revealed that research needs to focus on the intersection of leadership development, racial identity development, and spirituality. This article provides recommendations for administrators, faculty, and staff to be more inclusive of spirituality in the leadership development of Black men college students.