THE INFLUENCE OF PRIVATE COLLEGES ON APPALACHIAN …

THE INFLUENCE OF PRIVATE COLLEGES ON APPALACHIAN IDENTITY: A DESCRIPTIVE CASE STUDY Brian Thomas Chisom

Dissertation submitted to the Faculty of the Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies

Dr. Steven M. Janosik, Chair Dr. Elizabeth G. Creamer Dr. Joan B. Hirt Dr. Anita M. Puckett

1-30-09 Blacksburg, VA Keywords: Appalachia, Higher Education, Identity

The Influence of Private Colleges on Appalachian Identity: A Descriptive Case Study Brian T. Chisom Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the role private colleges in Appalachia play in shaping the regions identity using a descriptive case study method of inquiry. Private colleges have served a vital role in Appalachia in that they have allowed many students in the region the opportunity to attain a college degree. Consequently, these institutions have afforded students in the Appalachian region the chance for a higher quality of life than many of their parents or grandparents (Lloyd, 1969; Neal, 1983; Searles, 1995). However, these same colleges have also served as interveners in Appalachia, and thus been involved in the formation of the regions identity with both positive and negative consequences (Ashworth, 1913; McNeil, 1995; Whisnant, 1994). This study explored Grant Colleges impact on Appalachian identity by seeking an emic characterization of the institutions role in the region from faculty, staff and students, and the institutions public proclamations. Additionally, this research provided insights into the historic and evolving role of private colleges in the Appalachian region as well as the influence of higher education on regional identity. The findings of this study indicated that Grant College is not engaged in systematic cultural intervention in Appalachia; however, this study does not conclude this is necessarily the case at other institutions in the region. Further exploration of this topic might yield different findings and expand upon the research produced in this study.

DEDICATION I dedicate this dissertation to Lois A. and James R. Bryant, my aunt and uncle. They have been two of the best teachers one could ever have. I have learned the importance of faith, family, hard work and perseverance from them. I am also grateful for their encouragement and guidance. I would also like to thank my extended family and friends for their encouragement throughout my educational experience at Virginia Tech. I am blessed to know each of you and am thankful for your friendship and support. Finally, I would like to thank the employees of Roanoke College who encouraged me to pursue the Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies and made accommodations for that goal to be realized.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I am grateful to the faculty and staff at Virginia Tech who have assisted me throughout my graduate experience. I have thoroughly enjoyed my coursework and the wisdom and knowledge imparted by the HED faculty members including the retired chairman of the higher education program, Dr. Don Creamer. I am very grateful to Dr. Steven Janosik for his leadership of the higher education program and the excellent academic advising he afforded me during my time at Virginia Tech. I would also like to give special recognition to the members of my dissertation committee for their assistance and guidance: Dr. Steven M. Janosik, Chair; Dr. Elizabeth G. Creamer; Dr. Joan B. Hirt; and Dr. Anita M. Puckett. I am thankful for the knowledge each of you have imparted to me during my program of study at Virginia Tech.

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Table of Contents Abstract................................................................................................ii Dedication.............................................................................................iii Acknowledgements..................................................................................iv Table of Contents.................................................................................................................v List of Tables......................................................................................................................ix Chapter One............................................................................................1 Introduction.............................................................................................1 Statement of the Problem............................................................................1

Identity Construction........................................................................2 Appalachian Identity and Essentialism....................................................5 Appalachian Identity and Non-Essentialism..............................................7 Appalachian Identity and Globalization..................................................9 Appalachian Identity and Higher Education............................................11 Purpose of the Study................................................................................12 Research Questions..................................................................................12 Significance of the Study............................................................................13 Delimitations of the Study.........................................................................14 Organization of the Study..........................................................................15 Chapter Two..........................................................................................16 Literature Review...................................................................................16 Identity and Appalachia............................................................................16

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