Research
My research focuses on the impact of social capital and networks on student success in higher education. This work has led to developing a survey tool to measure social capital and its influence on creating a sense of belonging within honors communities. I've had the privilege of presenting my findings at the Oxford University (England) Education International Symposium and contributing to doctoral dissertation committees.
Currently, I am exploring the application of social capital theory and social networks within the context of Italy. This research has included immersive experiences leading South Carolina Honors College student groups in summer programs focused on social capital in Italy. My most recent research, concluding in 2019, involved follow-up interviews with the co-founder of Sardex and other networks in the Amalfi region.
Social Capital and Cultural Capital
High-Achieving Students
Presentations
- Parsons, J. and Thomas, H. (2021). Best Practices Session: Hispanic and African American Honors Students: Recruiting, Supporting and Celebrating Excellence. National Collegiate Honors Council National Conference, Orlando, FL.
- Thomas, H. (2021). Senior Thesis Panel Discussion. National Collegiate Honors Council National Conference, Orlando, Florida.
- Banks, H. (2019, November). Dual Advising: Social Capital in the Honors Advisement Experience. National Collegiate Honors Council National Conference, New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Banks, H. (2017, August). The influence of social capital on student persistence. Oxford Education Research Symposium at Oxford University, Oxford, England.
- Banks, H. (2015, November). Why did they stay: Understanding the effect of cultural capital on student persistence using a mixed methods approach. Mid-South Educational Research Association Conference, Lafayette, Louisiana.
- Banks, H. (2015, February). Making the Pieces Fit: Advising Honors College Students. February, 2015 University of South Carolina System Advisors Educational Conference.
- Banks, H. (2014, October). Alternative Methods to Address Diversity: Promoting Resilience in High Achieving Minority Students. Diversity Conference, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC.
