A Narrative Study of Women Leading Within the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities

Abstract

This article is based on a 3-year narrative study that tells the stories of five women leading within the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities (CCCU). Women leaders are under-represented within this sector of higher education compared to other religious and/or private higher education institutions even though women comprise approximately 60% of college students. This article will explore 4 of the 10 themes that emerged from the women's narratives within the context of existing research literature: (a) family-work balance, (b) transformational and androgynous leadership, (c) imposter syndrome, and (d) the complicated relationships and networks present within the CCCU. Within the women's stories, compelling evidence suggests that cultural challenges exist for female leaders. Christian higher education institutions wishing to create inclusive environments for female (or other nonmajority) leaders should: (a) be attentive to Christian culture for both positive and negative forces impacting leaders; (b) create family-friendly policies and programs to attract and retain talented leaders; and (c) cultivate cultures that develop and sustain mentors and protégés.