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Cover of The Hidden Curriculum of Community College

The Hidden Curriculum of Community College

Thriving in Spaces Not Built for Marginalized Students

The Hidden Curriculum: Thriving in Spaces Not Built for Marginalized Students is an examination of how unspoken rules and invisible systems in higher education impact the experiences of marginalized students; especially in community colleges. Through insights, research, and real-world examples, Dr. Demetra Williams exposes the barriers that students of color, first-generation learners, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities quietly navigate every day. These students are expected to succeed in environments never truly designed for them; yet they persist, not because the system works, but because they find ways to work around it. But this book doesn't stop at critique. It offers hope, strategy, and actionable solutions. Dr. Williams argues that the difference between struggle and success is often support, direction, and the presence of the right people. Educators, advisors, administrators, and even peer leaders play a crucial role in either widening or closing the gaps that exist in student development and academic success. This book shines a light on: *The invisible expectations and “unwritten rules” that define academic culture *Why community college students often face unique psychological, financial, and cultural stressors *How faculty and staff can be either gatekeepers or changemakers *The role of campus resources, mental health services, and culturally responsive teaching *What it really takes to create spaces where students feel seen, heard, and supported The Hidden Curriculum: Thriving in Spaces Not Built for Marginalized Students is part call to action, part guidebook. It is for anyone who works in higher education; and especially those who believe in equity beyond buzzwords. It reminds us that when we change the systems, not the students, we unlock potential that has always existed. If you’ve ever questioned why some students fall through the cracks, or how to help them rise above the gaps, this book offers both clarity and compassion. It is essential reading for student affairs professionals, faculty, community college leaders, and anyone committed to transforming education into a space where every student has a real chance to succeed.

Genres

Education

ISBN

9798900461298

Format

Print / Paperback

Contributor

Dr. Demetra L. Williams

Author

Dr. Demetra L. Williams is a respected education leader, author, and equity strategist with over two decades of experience across higher education, K-12 education, non-public K-12 education, alternative education and workforce development. Her career has been dedicated to advancing student success and institutional accountability, particularly for historically underserved populations. A contributor to the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and a frequent policy advocate, Dr. Williams has influenced state and national education reform efforts through research, legislative testimony, and program development. She holds five degrees in education, including an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration with a concentration in Student Affairs, and currently serves as a higher education leader at a nationally recognized community college. She is the author of Whispers of Growth and Caden’s Big Boom, and is currently designing a student-centered navigation tool and writing her forthcoming book, The Hidden Curriculum of Community College: Thriving in Spaces Not Built for Marginalized Students. Her current work focuses on equipping community college students with the practical insight and cultural awareness needed to navigate and succeed in environments often misaligned with their lived experiences. Dr. Williams's writing and leadership are grounded in a deep commitment to equity, belonging, and purpose-driven education—empowering students to rise, thrive, and lead with confidence.

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