Date of Graduation

12-2022

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

College/School

School of Education

Department

Educational Leadership

Program

Organization & Leadership EdD

First Advisor

Genevieve Negron-Gonzales

Second Advisor

Dafeng Koon

Third Advisor

Jane Bleasdale

Abstract

The study of the personal and career narratives of immigrant Women of Color can lead to more appropriate standards in mainstream work environments and to the expansion of professional leadership opportunities for immigrant Women of Color. The experiences of immigrant Women of Color leaders are varied and complex, with each leader’s experience offering unique perspectives on their leadership journey. Additionally, it is important to analyze their identities because they contain multiple layers, serving as the foundation that has shaped them into the authentic leaders they are today. As scholars, researchers, and activists, we have a duty to address the lack of opportunities and support for immigrant Women of Color in higher education, so that future immigrant Women of Color leaders can have the opportunity to engage in inclusive leadership practices and be confident when pursuing leadership positions in higher education. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of immigrant Women of Color leaders in higher education and examine how their identities and life experiences influence their leadership styles. Using a collaborative autoethnography approach, participants engaged in individual and group discussions to share their unique leadership stories and to evaluate their authenticity to themselves. Their accounts exposed the need to combat mainstream privilege and power. By accepting and encouraging immigrant Women of Color leaders to exhibit their true intersecting identities in their leadership style, higher education professionals can develop a model for exemplary leadership. In addition, allowing immigrant Women of Color leaders to step back and reflect on the ways they lead and see themselves is critical in their leadership development.

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