Zach Shirley, Ed.D. ('14) is a contributing author of #BLACKOUT - Real Issues and Real Solutions to Real Challenges Facing Black Student Affairs Professionals. Published earlier this year, the book is a timely and relevant read for those wanting to better understand institutional racism and how it manifests itself on college and university campuses. Dr. Shirley is the Director of The Center for Fraternity and Sorority Life at the University of North Texas. 

Book Summary: "On Friday, March 25, 2016, a collective group of Black Student Affairs Professionals (BLKSAP) took over the Student Affair Professionals Facebook page by sharing articles, videos, and personal stories addressing the experiences of Black higher education professionals. These articles, videos, and personal stories addressed issues of racism, privilege, and microaggressions within the system of higher education. The members of the (BLKSAP) Facebook group not only wanted to talk about the microaggressions, macroaggressions, and missteps perpetrated by many of their colleagues from across the country, but they wanted to ensure their voices and concerns of Black Student Affair Professionals (BLKSAP) were heard and that their experiences would not be erased or dismissed by fear, guilt, or fragility of their peers. To preserve this special moment and build on the positive momentum of this amazing event, the creators and members of (BLKSAP) co-authored a book relating to some of the major issues discussed from this online event to raise awareness, educate, empower, and inspire other student affair professionals of color who face these similar challenges. Through a variety of real-life stories from various black student affair professionals who have witnessed some of these experiences on various campuses all across the country, the writers share their personal stories in hopes of raising awareness and providing the inspiration needed for others who face similar challenges to overcome some of these real challenges faced by many student affair professionals of color everyday."