Year
2020
Season
Spring
Paper Type
Doctoral Dissertation
College
College of Education and Human Services
Degree Name
Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (EdD)
Department
Leadership, School Counseling & Sport Management
NACO controlled Corporate Body
University of North Florida. Department of Leadership, School Counseling & Sports Management
First Advisor
Dr. Anne Swanson
Second Advisor
Dr. Paul Parkinson
Third Advisor
Dr. Amanda Pascale
Fourth Advisor
Dr. Fred Seamon
Department Chair
Dr. Elizabeth Gregg
College Dean
Dr. Diane Yendol-Hoppey
Abstract
Researchers contend that higher education organizations and systems, no matter their description (public, private, two-year, or four-year), build society. Nationally, many higher education leaders discuss metrics and measures such as graduation rates, class sizes, intercollegiate athletics, famous alumni, and the extent of community engagement, as important elements of societal influence. However, within public higher education scholarship in Florida, supplier diversity is an under-recognized area. Contrary to the better-known student, faculty, and staff diversity initiatives in Florida’s colleges and universities, diversification of vendor participation for procurement and contracting lacks a systematic focus. Little scholarly knowledge exists regarding the extent to which public universities in general, and Florida particularly, support supplier diversity as part of economic development efforts in communities where they are located. This study contributes to the literature about public university support and implementation of supplier diversity by examining the first program founded within the Florida State University System (SUS) at University of Florida (UF). Also, the study provides insight into whether community and organizational value occurs when supplier diversity initiatives are implemented. Lastly, the study delineates what public leaders can learn from the experiences of supplier diversity leaders at UF in order to create an effective, successful program.
Suggested Citation
Mobley-Gonzalez, Cheryl S., "Making Meaning of Supplier Diversity in Florida's Public Universities: A Narrative Inquiry of Educational Connoisseurship and Criticism" (2020). UNF Graduate Theses and Dissertations. 938.
https://digitalcommons.unf.edu/etd/938