Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of North Texas, August, 2008. / Title from title page display. Includes bibliographical references.

Thesis (Ph. D.)--University of Alabama at Birmingham, 2009. / Title from PDF title page (viewed Sept. 2, 2009). Additional advisors: Wiiliam Boyd Rogan, Margaret Rice, James Eck, Carl Brezausek. Includes bibliographical references (p. 86-89).

Thesis (M.S.)--Eastern Illinois University, 2010. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 61-66).

Thesis (M.S.)--Eastern Illinois University, 2010. / Includes bibliographical references (leaves 55-56).

The current study investigated role model selection and racial identity for 104 African American male college students attending historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs)and predominantly White institutions (PWIs). Participants completed a demographic questionnaire, a role model measure, and a racial identity measure. Data were analyzed both quantitatively and qualitatively and findings revealed that 82% of participants identified role models with 92% identifying racially-similar role models. Qualitative analysis using open and axial coding methods yielded 11 themes that allowed for a closer look into the characteristics African American male college students identified as important in role models: Personality Attributes, Community, Success, Spirituality, Providing Inspiration or Challenge, Mentorship, Education, Family, Emotional Support, Shared Career Interest, and Proximity. A discussion of the results with research and applied implications are included. / Department of Counseling Psychology and Guidance Services

This qualitative study described and examined the characteristics, components and theoretical design of the Student African-American Brother (SAAB). The SAAB is a national program that seeks to increase the academic and social integration of African-American males in higher education to increase their potential to graduate with an undergraduate degree. The SAAB's academic and social integration strategies were compared to Bean and Bennett's conceptual model of black student attrition to determine the congruency between the organization's strategies and the theoretical framework. The methodology was case study. Thirty semi-structured interviews were held with past and current members of the organization to gain a broader knowledge of the SAAB strategies and interventions used to promote their academic and social integration. The research revealed the SAAB applies a three dimensional approach which consists of providing a supportive environment, supporting academic goals, and encouraging campus and community involvement. This approach increases the students' understanding of the organization and structure of the higher education setting to yield successful matriculation through a four year college or university.