A dissertation research study was conducted to examine the conditions behind the continued lack of advancement for Black student affairs professionals within the California State University (CSU) System. This study sought to understand the perspective of the executive and management-level positions categorized as the Management Personnel Plan (MPP). Since the 1960s, the CSU has embraced the principle of diversity and inclusion to improve its campus racial climate with an equity aim for Black people in leadership positions and its Black student population. These diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives have not made much progress, leading to a gap between the principle and the implementation of racial equity (P-I Gap). This study used critical race theory, white replacement theory, and symbolic racism theory to explore the elements behind the P-I Gap in the career pipeline of Black student affairs professionals within the CSU System. This was a mixed-method study from the practitioner research approach to gain a holistic view. [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.]