Research Interests

• Racial and Ethnic Relations
• Organizational Theory
• African American Entrepreneurship
• Sociology of Entrepreneurship
• Economic Sociology

Bio

Asheli S. Atkins, MBA is an entrepreneur and studies race, ethnicity, entrepreneurship, and organizational theory. In her research, she developed a multidisciplinary framework to examine the strategies Black entrepreneurs use to navigate barriers in the market. With the use of qualitative methods, Asheli analyzes the experiences of her participants and uncovers the strategies they construct, while also learning how personal and professional experiences with racism, discrimination, sexism, and power dynamics influence their decision-making processes as entrepreneurs. This data assists her as a researcher, business consultant, and small business advocate. Asheli uses her research to equip entrepreneurs with tools and strategies to avoid and/or limit their experience with barriers that may hinder their business success. Additionally, Asheli is interested in diversity in innovation, organizational structures as it relates to productivity and ethical behavior, as well as self-actualization among women in corporate environments.

In 2018, Asheli joined the Texas A&M University Entrepreneurship Minor Steering Committee where she assists in the implementation and teaching of a campus-wide entrepreneurship minor. This opportunity allows Asheli to bridge her experience as an M.B.A. and sociologist as she works alongside distinguished scholars and professionals. Additionally, Asheli works with the May’s Innovation Research Center as a Qualitative Researcher, collecting data on product innovation among Houston based accelerators and incubators. In these role, Asheli illustrates her ability to utilize her multidisciplinary expertise in her research, teaching, and service.