Abstract
The purpose of this qualitative study was to discover which inclusive leadership practices improve the sense of belonging for Black/African American and Hispanic/Latinx Generation Z college students at a predominantly White institution (PWI). The researcher investigated the following research question: What inclusive leadership practices foster a sense of belonging for Black and Hispanic Generation Z college students enrolled at a predominantly White institution (PWI)? This study used a qualitative narrative study approach to explore which inclusive leadership practices improve the sense of belonging for minoritized college students at a PWI. Data were collected by conducting one-on-one, in-depth interviews with traditional undergraduate Black/African American and Hispanic/Latinx Generation Z enrolled at the study site prior to 2020. The findings of this study uncovered four leadership themes: (1) Fostering Uniqueness: Supporting Individuality and Diversity (2) Strengthening Belongingness within a Team: Building Equitable Relationships (3) Supporting Organizational Efforts: Exhibiting Adaptability and Collaboration, (4) Showing Appreciation: Generational Back to the Future and the addition of a fifth theme and dimension: (5) Investing Intentionally and Authentically: Valuing Mentorship, and Support Networks. The findings of this study help identify best practices for higher education professionals interested in strengthening a sense of belonging for minoritized Gen Z college students. This study also contributes to the growing body of research on inclusive leadership practices.