This qualitative interview study explored the perceptions of Black faculty in higher education regarding the influence of racial climate on predominantly White institution (PWI) campuses in the acquisition of tenure and promotion. The results from the analyses of ten interviews with Black tenured faculty from Big 10 and Big 12 institutions of higher education revealed that although a high level of success is possible, race-related events in the lives of Black faculty do hinder their ability to navigate higher education systems that would allow them to progress, to gain tenure and promotion and to sustain successful careers in higher education. The goal of the study was to provide direction and guidance to African American doctoral students and early career faculty who may experience similar challenges in their career trajectories and help increase their persistence in academic careers. [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://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]