Currently, women academicians in Kenya are underrepresented at all levels in Kenyan IHL, leading to less participation and integration into the administration and governance of higher institutions. As a result women academicians have little chance of making meaningful contributions to important policies and decisions that affect the institutions and the country as a whole. This Phenomenological study examined the barriers that affect academic women as they teach and strive for leadership positions in IHLs. The purpose of this study was to examine the career experiences of Kenyan women academicians as they teach and aspire to leadership roles in public institutions of higher learning (IHL) in Kenya. This study was guided by one main research question and four sub questions. The main question was: What is the experience of Kenyan women academicians as they seek teaching and leadership roles in institutions of higher learning? The sub questions were: 1a) what were the supports in their search to attain a teaching position? 1b) what were the barriers in their search to attain a teaching position? 1c) what were the supports as they searched to attain a leadership position? 1d) what were the barriers in their search to attain a leadership position? The study sought to answer the research questions with both qualitative and quantitative designs. Quantitative data were gathered through a survey created by the researcher while qualitative data were gathered using individual interviews. The study revealed the following major findings: 1) Family support and support from senior academicians was essential for achievements 2) Help from mentors was important 3) Academic credentials, hard work, and courage were potential contributors to successful career achievements. The study also considered the implication for practice, leadership, learning and service. Further research will be required that investigates the factors that prevent women from obtaining leadership roles not only in the academia but also in the socio-political arena in Kenya. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]