Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Educational Leadership & Research

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) face persistent challenges in meeting NCAA Academic Progress Rate (APR) requirements, with nearly one-third of HBCU football programs falling below the 930 threshold. This correlational study examined whether leadership styles of athletic directors at HBCUs predict APR compliance outcomes using Full Range Leadership Theory (FRLT) as a theoretical framework, specifically focusing on transformational and transactional leadership approaches.

The study addressed three research questions examining: (1) whether athletic directors' leadership styles predict the likelihood of meeting APR compliance; (2) to what extent these leadership styles predicted average APR scores; and (3) how leadership styles influenced athletic directors' ability to foster academic progress within HBCU athletic programs. Data was collected using the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ-5X short) administered to athletic directors from 46 institutions across four HBCU athletic conferences (SWAC, MEAC, CIAA, and SIAC). Binary logistic regression was employed to analyze the relationship between leadership styles (interval measures) and APR compliance (dichotomous pass/fail outcome).

This research addresses a critical gap in understanding effective leadership practices at HBCUs facing unique challenges including limited resources, underprepared student-athletes, and financial constraints. Findings will inform leadership training initiatives and institutional strategies to improve academic outcomes for student-athletes at HBCUs, contributing to broader conversations about equity and social justice in intercollegiate athletics.

Date

7-23-2025

Committee Chair

Dr. Roland Mitchell

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_dissertations.6844

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Available for download on Saturday, July 24, 2032

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