Calling, Confidence, Competence, and Connections: A Grounded Theory for Optimizing Wellbeing of Female University Presidents
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Authors
Novak, Amy C.
Issue Date
2014-08-29
Volume
Issue
Type
Dissertation
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
In the next five years, estimates suggest that half of the current college presidents will retire (Song & Hartley, 2012). This leadership transition opens the door for countless female leaders to consider the role of university president. Women account for fewer than 25% of the current college presidents (American Council for Education, 2011). This grounded theory study examined how female university presidents at small, private, four-year universities in America defined and experienced wellbeing. Research clarified the important linkage between wellbeing, leadership resiliency, job satisfaction, and job tenure (Rath & Harter, 2010). The following research questions framed the study: 1) How do female university presidents describe wellbeing? 2) How do female university presidents experience wellbeing? 3) What factors have strengthened the wellbeing of female university presidents? 4) What factors have hindered the wellbeing of female university presidents? 5) What strategies do female university presidents use to enhance their level of wellbeing? Using a grounded theory framework, the researcher interviewed ten female college presidents at small, private, four-year universities across America. The results suggested that women who viewed their role as a vocational calling, exhibited high degrees of self-confidence, developed leadership competence through professional development and strong teamwork, and sought out relevant and supportive networks of connection fostered the conditions necessary to nurture more optimally their wellbeing. The research participants elucidated strategies for developing a new leadership paradigm that supports the wellbeing of current and future female university presidents.
Description
Citation
Publisher
Creighton University
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Copyright is retained by the Author. A non-exclusive distribution right is granted to Creighton University and to ProQuest following the publishing model selected above.
Copyright is retained by the Author. A non-exclusive distribution right is granted to Creighton University and to ProQuest following the publishing model selected above.
Copyright is retained by the Author. A non-exclusive distribution right is granted to Creighton University and to ProQuest following the publishing model selected above.