The Shadow Culture of Higher Education: Exploring Educational Pathways for Undocumented and DACA Students

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33423/qr1xcb86

Keywords:

higher education, undocumented, DACAmented, Organizational Theory, institutional culture, Validation Theory

Abstract

This qualitative case study employed validation and organizational theories  to explore the nuanced ways in which a private university validates,  supports, and promotes the success of undocumented and DACAmented  students. The findings revealed that an institutional “shadow culture” exists  to mobilize access to resources, community, and foster success to degree  completion. The authors theorize that students are validated and affirmed by  resources and support services faculty and staff establish and sustain within  the shadows of the institution.

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Published

2026-05-07

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Articles

How to Cite

Graham, K., & Coates, C. (2026). The Shadow Culture of Higher Education: Exploring Educational Pathways for Undocumented and DACA Students. Journal of Higher Education Theory and Practice, 26(2). https://doi.org/10.33423/qr1xcb86