Women of Color and Hair Bias in the Work Environment

Kula A. Francis is a tenured Associate Professor of Political Science, and the Interim Director of the Virgin Islands Caribbean Cultural Center (VICCC) in the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences at the University of the Virgin Islands. A native of St. Thomas, Dr. Francis earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Sciences from the University of the Virgin Islands. She also holds a Master of Public Administration, and a PhD in Urban Studies and Public Affairs, from the University of Akron, in Ohio. She teaches a variety of courses at UVI, including, political science, history, public administration, and the social sciences. Her research interests include Virgin Islands history and culture, social equity, disaster management, Burnout in public agencies, and STEM mentorship. She has published in a number of refereed academic journals, has written many book chapters, and has served as Principal Investigator on Federally and locally funded grants. Anna M. Clarke , DSW, CSW earned a Doctor of Social Work and Master of Social Work degrees from Walden University, Master of Education Administration from the University of the Virgin Islands, and Bachelor of Social Work from Clark Atlanta University. She worked as a Social Worker, Educator, Therapist, and Administrator at various agencies throughout her over thirty-year career. Dr. Clarke serves as the Director of Practicum Education for the Bachelor and Master programs within the Social Work department at UVI. She holds membership in Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., National Association of Social Workers, National Association of Black Social Workers, Phi Alpha Social Work and Golden Key Honor Societies, and National Society of Leadership and Success.