Women in Higher Education Administration Leadership and the Role of Institutional Support

Abstract

Studies show women are underrepresented in higher education leadership. Nonetheless, women leaders achieve success when they receive strong institutional support. Mentors and coaches, both men and women, have the most impact on women's success, while other institutional aids include financial assistance, leadership support, and open institutional culture. Women who advance in their careers tend to remain at their institution. At the same time, lack of institutional support, family and work conflicts, and limited career advancement opportunities continue to pose barriers as women seek positions in the upper echelons of academic administration. Thus, there is a need for strong, consistent institutional support to improve and accelerate women's progress. Institutions that implement change in an inclusive, adaptable, and flexible manner can build a supportive infrastructure that benefits everyone. Women who prepare academically and professionally and contribute to the scholarly literature will help shape the future of higher education.