ABSTRACT
In this inspiring and informative essay, Robbin Chapman shares a framework that she developed for women of color scholars to thrive and succeed in academia. She notes: “given the futility of waiting for HWCUs (Historically White Colleges and Universities) and their agents to increase their cultural competency and engage in more equitable practices, I decided to take ownership and authorship of my growth as a scholar, teacher, intellectual, and lifelong learner.” Robbin’s framework, The Thrive Mosaic, offers actionable strategies to aid women of color scholars in the processes of self-actualization and building social capital in ways that challenge the racialized and gendered barriers of the academy. The Thrive Mosaic encourages women of color to celebrate their inherent value as scholars, and to create a growing portfolio of scholarly and self-care resources in order to maintain their success and well-being. Specifically, readers who use the Mosaic will develop: 1) the art of strategic persuasion, 2) the ability to make bold decisions, and 3) the ability to accept help and support.
