Sustaining women presidencies in higher education

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this qualitative research is to contribute to the understanding of the individual and organizational factors that affect women in their leadership journey and in sustaining success when serving their Higher Education communities and beyond. Design/methodology This phenomenological study utilized semi-structured interviews with women serving as presidents in institutions of Higher Education. Study participants ( n = 10) slightly varied in racial and ethnic identity, with the majority serving their first presidential appointment. Findings Research findings include recommendations for policies and procedures supporting women in ascending to their presidencies and in serving their respective Higher Education Communities. Research limitations The scarcity of women presidents, along with their extremely demanding schedules, resulted in a relatively limited sample ( n = 10), nevertheless adequate for the study. Practical implications The institutions of Higher Education can implement the recommendations of this study to make it equitable for qualified women to aspire, achieve, and succeed in strategic leadership positions, and serve as inspirational role models for future generations.