Dear Colleagues,
I am conducting my dissertation study about the experiences of trans* academics affiliated with a U.S. post-secondary institution (trans* is broadly and inclusively defined, I intentionally include faculty who identify as trans*, agender, transgender, transsexual, men and women of transsexual experience, genderqueer, gender non-conforming and/or any other identity that diverges from socially expected genders associated with one's assigned sex at birth). The study examines trans* identities and the academic employment experiences of participants.
This research is determined "exempt" by the Michigan State University IRB Application #i046337; x14-570e and the faculty mentor is Kristen A. Renn.
I am asking potential participants to fill out a brief interest form (link below). In the interest of recruiting a sample that reflects the variety of trans* academics' experiences, I seek a diverse sample. Individuals who identify across diverse racial or ethnic identities, gender identities, gender expressions, sexual orientations, socio-economic backgrounds, disciplinary backgrounds or training, ability statuses, and/or national origins are especially encouraged to participate.
In order to be eligible to participate you must identify in some way as transgender or trans*, in the broadest and most inclusive sense of those terms, and have worked during the last six months, or currently work, in a faculty/lecturer/academic appointment (tenure track, non-tenure track, or adjunct).
Please click here to fill out the confidential demographics form.
Please share this survey with your trans* identified faculty colleagues.
If selected for participation, I ask that you complete two interviews (60-75 minutes each) via Skype/Google Hangout, in person (if possible), or over the phone. In preparation for the second interview, I will send participants a narrative prompt and ask for a brief response. In the spirit of social justice research, I seek to collaborate with participants in shaping a collective narrative about their experiences.
This study is supported by the Michigan State University College of Education. As a token of appreciation, all participants will receive a $25 amazon gift card payable after the completion of the second interview.
I look forward to your participation in this research. If you have any questions please contact me at pitche13@msu.edu or Dr. Kris Renn at renn@msu.edu.
In Struggle,
Erich N. Pitcher
Doctoral Candidate
Higher, Adult, and Lifelong Education
Michigan State University