Women in the Academy

Abstract

The underrepresentation of women in higher education faculty positions is widely acknowledged and a complex issue that involves numerous multifaceted elements. In this chapter, the author will examine the current status of women faculty in institutions of higher education in the United States including their representation in general, across faculty ranks, and in positions of leadership. The author will then examine initiatives for advancing women in higher education, beginning with research and evaluation actions for assessing institutional gender equity climate, followed by an examination of structural and positional initiatives and policies for advancing women in academia. Finally, the author will conclude the chapter with a discussion of potential funding sources for transformative university practices and policies regarding women faculty.