ERIC Number: ED232553
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 1983-Mar
Pages: 37
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Women as Administrators in Higher Education: Qualitative Data for Value Questions. ASHE 1983 Annual Meeting Paper.
Ironside, Ellen M.
The career paths and backgrounds of 30 upper-level women administrators in 25 North Carolina four-year public and private institutions were evaluated. These women occupied the highest or next-highest positions within a given category and held a doctorate or equivalent. Structured interviews covered background and education; work history; and the influence of family, friends, and mentors. Their views of college administration, the work climate, and the potential for women in the field were also surveyed. These administrators possessed a wide range of engaging personal qualities and they became expert at career strategies that utilized experience and made the most of talents. They accepted responsibility and valued work, which resulted in sustained performance and a record of achievement. Early role models appeared to be important, as were family attitudes, expectations, support, and trust. It appears that administrative leadership positions can be attained through pathways not totally within academe, although appropriate academic credentials are a requirement. What is needed most is adaptability and a wide range of qualities and skills. Finally, attainment of these high-level careers may have been more the outcome of personal goals than of career planning and precise patterns of preparation. An interview guide is appended. (SW)
Publication Type: Reports - Research; Speeches/Meeting Papers; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A