Support Black Women Faculty at Penn State: A Call for Action

At Penn State, students—especially Black women—are missing out on crucial mentorship and diverse perspectives. The lack of Black women faculty is not just a numbers issue; it’s a barrier to the success and growth of all students. Representation matters because it enriches our classrooms, broadens our worldviews, and prepares us for a society that thrives on diversity.

The Problem: A Gap We Can’t Afford

Out of 3,735 faculty and academic administrators at Penn State University Park, only about 55 are Black women, making up just 1.5% of the total academic body. This disparity is more than a statistic—it’s a missed opportunity for students who need mentors who truly understand their challenges and experiences. And this gap doesn’t just affect Black women; it impacts everyone, because a diverse faculty enhances the learning environment for all students.

Why This Matters to Everyone

Think about the classrooms where you learn. How would it feel to look around and realize that none of your professors share your background, your experiences, or your perspective? That’s the reality for too many Black women students at Penn State. But it’s also a disservice to everyone—students of all races and backgrounds thrive in a diverse academic space.

We need action—not just for Black women, but for all of us. By strengthening faculty diversity, Penn State can foster an environment where every student feels seen, heard, and equipped to succeed in a globalized world.

Our Request for Change: Bold Steps Forward

We are calling on Penn State to make the following changes now:

Launch a Dedicated Hiring Initiative for Black Women Faculty

Penn State must prioritize hiring Black women through a multi-year initiative, with targeted funding and support for departments.
Create pathways for Black women to succeed and thrive in academia.

Set Public, Measurable Goals for Faculty Diversity

Make diversity data public and ensure the university tracks and reports progress annually. Establish clear, public benchmarks to hold the university accountable.

Strengthen Recruitment Pipelines

Partner with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Black academic networks to bring more qualified Black women faculty to Penn State.

Reform Hiring Practices to Address Bias

Implement mandatory anti-bias training for hiring committees.
Ensure Black women candidates are consistently included in interview shortlists.

Support Career Growth and Retention for Black Women Faculty
Offer mentorship, networking, and professional development tailored to Black women. Acknowledge their contributions to diversity and inclusion in tenure and promotion decisions.

This Is Our Moment
We cannot wait for change to happen on its own. The time to act is now—for Penn State to become a true leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion. By committing to these changes, the university will not only enrich its academic community but will also better prepare all students for a world that is diverse and interconnected.

We are not just asking for more representation; we are asking for a campus that values and actively nurtures every student’s potential. Let’s make Penn State a place where every student, faculty member, and future graduate can thrive—regardless of their background.

We urge Penn State to take immediate action and commit to a plan that will create real, lasting change by the 2025-2026 academic year.