A Leadership Guide for Women in Higher Education

Book excerpt: Women face unique challenges as they move into senior leadership roles at colleges and universities. This guide provides them with the frank, supportive advice they need to advance their careers and lead with excellence. For years, Marjorie Hass, now the president of Rhodes College, was approached by women in higher education looking for advice and support as they took on leadership roles and navigated challenging career paths. Eventually, she began offering online seminars so she could meet in small groups to answer questions and encourage women to develop mutually supportive relationships. In A Leadership Guide for Women in Higher Education, Hass draws on her sixteen years of senior leadership experience, her work with national higher education organizations, and her mentorship work with dozens of women to address fundamental issues women face when they lead in higher education. Aiming to level the playing field by giving women the insightful, supportive advice they need to advance in their careers and to lead with excellence, Hass combines practical information with career coaching. In this frank guide to launching, building, and advancing your academic career, Hass addresses a wide range of topics, including • deciding whether academic leadership is for you • developing a personal leadership style • becoming comfortable with power, ambition, and personal voice • navigating patriarchal assumptions • finding joy in leadership work • gaining experience with budget management, revenue generation, personnel management, and fund-raising—no matter your current job title • effectively managing conflict • aligning personal and career values and goals • winning your next job • and much more Women at any stage of their academic leadership career will find this guide insightful, useful, and empowering, as will anyone interested in supporting women leaders and diversifying leadership in higher education.