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The making of a leader: a phenomenological study of the lived experiences of women who have served as president at U.S. colleges and universities
Dissertation   Open access

The making of a leader: a phenomenological study of the lived experiences of women who have served as president at U.S. colleges and universities

Katrina L. Jackson
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Drexel University
Jun 2015
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-6692
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Abstract

Universities and colleges--Administration--Women Educational leadership Education
Women in the position of president at U.S. colleges and universities have defied the odds. Since the 1980s, the number of women presidents in colleges and universities has grown, increasing from 9.5% in 1986 to only 26.0% in 2011. Although the percentage of women presidents of these institutions has increased, there is still an underrepresentation of women in the role of president (American Council on Education, 2012). The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore the reported and lived experiences of women who became college and university presidents, with the goal of creating a better understanding of the leadership skills, career paths and characteristics necessary for the next generation of women aspiring to these roles. What emerged from this study expands the understanding of the journey and experiences women who have held the position of president endured to get to that position. Characteristics such as integrity, trustworthiness, fairness, a collaborative nature, transparency, and preparedness were shared by the participants. From their childhood experiences and influences to their career paths and challenges faced, their journey helps shed light on what the path has been and what the path may be. Women in positions of president want to inspire other women and provided sound advice for future leaders. This includes being a courageous leader, learning and building one network, and investing in oneself. For those aspiring women who may one day become college and university presidents, the descriptions may provide hope and be used as a beacon to guide their path. The key findings illustrate women in the position of president have some similar personality characteristics and leadership qualities that support their success. Recommendations include creating a pipeline to support the movement of women faculty and administrators to the presidency, creating structured mentor opportunities, obtaining access to a broad network of individuals, seeking special project opportunities, and looking the part of a leader.

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