When the name of the game is research - Editor's Note

Black Issues in Higher Education, May 8, 2003 by Hilary Hurd Anyaso

As they say in the academy, "publish or perish." That's music to some scholars' ears. Nothing is more interesting and causes such intellectual stimulation, yet at the same time causes such extreme frustration and stress than their own research--and finding funding. Others would rather spend their energy teaching. And for some scholars, the publishing aspect of academia is what makes them head for the door, but not without their doctorate.

In this special report on research in higher education, we try to illuminate issues that exist for the individual researcher, as well as for institutions as a whole.

In Ronald Roach's article, "History's Burdens," he provides readers an overview of the federal government's push to make minority health and health disparities research a national priority, and how historically Black and majority White institutions have positioned themselves to carry out this important research agenda.

In "From the Ivory Tower to the Boardroom," Ben Hammer interviews Dr. Shahron Williams van Rooij, a Datatel executive who left academia, and armed with her doctorate decided to go the industry route. She enjoyed teaching, but was looking for a more practical application to her research. She has found the right match for her interests with her current employer, which still keeps her tied to the higher education market. She encourages all students to consider and weigh their options.

Administrators at historically Black Tennessee State University are working hard to create a research environment that will attract and retain faculty. Partnering with other colleges and universities, as well as the private sector has provided more research opportunities and research dollars for TSU scholars. They recently honored the researchers on their campus that have secured million-dollar grants and awards. Phaedra Brotherton speaks with TSU faculty and administrators about teaming up with outside partners, the research collaborations they have under way, and the challenges facing historically Black colleges and universities in the research-funding arena.

In Faculty Club, Kendra Hamilton profiles three scholars in the fields of African American studies, anthropology/sociology and public policy/government. They are all doing very different research from each other and have had varied experiences as faculty and researchers. What they share in common, however, is, and has been, the ability to stay focused on their particular research area of interest.

Lastly, take a look at some new scholarly books in "BI Bookshelf" and Julianne Malveaux's "Speaking of Education" column in which she provides the economic outlook for young people who sooner rather than later will be entering the job market.