The NCAA has awarded one of its four 2025 Graduate Student Research grants to support the dissertation research of doctoral student Jada Crocker (PhD in education candidate), who is exploring the academic advising experiences of Black/African American student-athletes at Minority Serving Institutions. As the lead researcher, Crocker is conducting in-depth interviews with participants to gain insights into the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these student-athletes at Division I institutions. This research aims to inform policy and practice by identifying barriers to success, promoting tailored support services, and encouraging inclusive practices that enhance student success and persistence.
Dr. Ellen Drogin Rodgers, Associate Professor in the School of Sport, Recreation, and Tourism Management at the College of Education and Human Development, serves as the Principal Investigator for the grant and as Crocker's mentor.
The project is supported by a $6,679 grant from the National Collegiate Athletic Association, with funding running from September 2025 to late June 2026.
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