Recently Completed Dissertations on Community and Junior Colleges

Latinos are being educated in American colleges and universities in greater numbers than ever before. Yet, despite the increases in population growth, Latinos are still falling behind. Little attention has been given to the experiences of Latino males enrolled at the community college. However, research shows that it is the community colleges in which a large portion of the college-going Latino population is enrolled. The purpose of this qualitative study is to examine how community colleges can increase Latino male engagement in the quest to promote their academic persistence. Findings suggest these 12 Latino men are faced with unique circumstances (familial commitment, employment, peers) both on and off campus that impedes their involvement. Institutions of higher education are encouraged to be more supportive by offering opportunities for engagement that are sensitive to lifestyle of these participants in order to maintain their enrollment.