This mixed methods study, framed in validation theory, involved men of color from 10 community colleges in California. This study examined the connection between faculty validation and successful academic experiences of men of color studying at community college. Data was collected and analyzed in three stages; survey responses (N = 1208), a short documentary film and interviews (N = 10), and a pre- and post-survey (N = 50) that assessed the impact of the film on faculty attitudes about the importance of validation. The study’s findings demonstrate the impact of faculty validation on the experience of successful men of color at community college. Other implications are for professional development for faculty, and for using visual methods for further research on how men of color experience community college.
