There are unspoken structural barriers that impede faculty of color from experiencing an equitable workplace that supports their promotion and retention in higher ed. The service burden also known as “cultural taxation,” places pressure on faculty of color to serve as role models, mentors, even surrogate parents to students of color, and to fulfill the institutional need for ethnic/racial representation. This service burden has increased as student bodies become more diverse and college campuses increase their efforts to provide inclusive learning environments that increase student enrollment. It is important to note that while student bodies are more diverse the diversity among faculty is lagging. This panel discussion will present the lived experience of three faculty and one staff from various CUNY campuses and will provide faculty and staff of color sound guidance to thrive in academia.