In this investigation, a case study illustrates how faculty, student, and staff behaviors in a predominantly white university (PWI) effected the perception of belonging and motivation of the African American female. The purpose of the research was to explore how a successful African American female experienced belonging at her predominantly white institution and explore why she succeeded. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]