Understanding the experiences of Latino/a non-academic employees at the University of Missouri

Using a narrative methodology of inquiry framed by an intersectionality theoretical framework, the purpose of this qualitative research study was to use testimonios to explore and describe the experiences of Latino/a non-academic employees (i.e., staff who work in service/maintenance jobs) at MU. This research study ultimately attempted to generate knowledge about the professional, educational, and personal journeys of traditionally marginalized workers. The central question of this study was: what are the life histories of Latino/a non-academic employees at MU and do issues of identity, power, and hierarchy emerge within those testimonios? One secondary question is: What opportunities do Latino/a non-academic employees have to develop their professional and educational careers? Using an intersectionality framework of analysis, this study presented the lived experiences and personal narratives of Jose and Maria within the context of the study research questions. This empirical qualitative study described the importance of knowing and understanding the experiences of Latino/a nonacademic employees at MU.