Welcome to an in-depth exploration of ‘Black Perspectives in Writing Program Administration: From the Margins to the Center,’ a pivotal collection that has garnered the prestigious 2020 Best Book Award from the Council of Writing Program Administrators (CWPA). This book represents an essential discourse on writing program administration (WPA), specifically addressing the intersection of race and the complexities of institutional practices.

In today’s climate, where discussions about race are more transparent and urgent than ever, this collection challenges WPAs to address how broader cultural narratives shape our administrative agendas. Through a series of essays, contributors illustrate how these narratives influence both programmatic objectives and interpersonal dynamics within academic environments.

The editors have curated a space where WPAs of color can articulate antiracist strategies within an Afrocentric framework. This framework not only empowers these professionals but also fosters collaborative relationships among allies. It encourages students and faculty alike to engage with rhetorics that confront oppressive ideologies, thereby enriching the educational landscape within writing programs.

Each contributor shares personal narratives that highlight both the challenges posed by racist microaggressions and the significant achievements of black WPAs. These stories serve as a testament to the resilience and commitment of individuals dedicated to advocating for students of color. The collection also emphasizes the importance of building strong alliances among white colleagues in the field, promoting a collective effort to challenge and dismantle systemic racism.

Additionally, the essays provide concrete models for action, detailing specific strategies that WPAs can implement to confront and resist microaggressions in their professional environments. This proactive approach not only benefits the writers and administrators involved but also cultivates a more inclusive atmosphere for all participants in the academic community.

As we delve further into the themes presented in this collection, it becomes evident that the focus extends beyond merely addressing race. Instead, it encourages a broader understanding of black perspectives in writing program administration, advocating for a shift towards an inclusive dialogue that recognizes the contributions of scholars of color.

The ‘CCCC Studies in Writing & Rhetoric (SWR) Series’ serves as a platform for diverse methodologies ranging from critical and historical to ethnographic approaches. Authors within this series draw upon various fields, including rhetoric, communication, education, and cultural studies, to inform their analyses. The breadth of focus encompasses individual writers and educators, classroom dynamics, curricular developments, and the socio-political contexts that shape the teaching and practice of writing.

In conclusion, ‘Black Perspectives in Writing Program Administration’ is not just a collection of essays; it is a call to action. It urges WPAs to engage deeply with the realities of race and allyship in academia, fostering a community that is committed to social justice and educational equity. Through the insights and experiences shared within these pages, readers are invited to reflect on their roles in dismantling systemic barriers and to actively participate in the ongoing dialogue about race in writing program administration.