| This paper presents a case study of the institutionalization of affirmative action at the University of Massachusetts Boston campus. Questions under consideration are, whether and to what extent affirmative action has been institutionalized? The work of Kanter, Berman and McLaughlin, Louis, and others is used to provide a theoretical background. In their work, these innovation and change theorists suggest that unless institutionalization takes place innovations remain peripheral to the organization, easily disengaged or discontinued, and they are largely ineffective.;The study is presented in four parts: part one presents background and a theoretical overview, part two presents research findings and data analysis, part three is a discussion of the factors impeding institutionalization, part four looks at the implications this study has for the University, and for future research in the area. Document review, interviews, and observation were primary sources of data. |
