Navigating Resources for Equity: The Relationship Between Multicultural Student Programs and Services Unit Power and Students of Color’s Retention.

This study examines the relationship between institutional resource allocation to Multicultural Student Programs and Services (MSPS) and the retention rates of students of color at public higher education institutions. Situated in the sociopolitical context influenced by the Black Lives Matter movement and rising anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) legislation, the research seeks to understand if targeted investments in MSPS significantly enhance retention for Asian, Black, Hispanic, and multiracial students. Using Quantitative Critical Race Theory (QuantCrit), this study employs correlation and multiple regression analyses to assess the effectiveness of MSPS expenditures. Results demonstrate that institutional investment in MSPS positively correlates with improved retention outcomes for students of color. Additionally, the research highlights the critical role of MSPS administrators' unit power—characterized by their environmental influence, institutional authority, and negotiation capabilities—in securing necessary funding. These findings contextualize the financial decisions institutions face amidst legislative pressures questioning the validity of diversity initiatives. This study contributes to existing literature by demonstrating how resource allocation strategies directly impact equity and retention outcomes, advocating for strategic, data-driven investments in MSPS as essential components for institutional effectiveness, credibility, and sustainable diversity practices.