Overcoming Challenges in a Male-Dominated Leadership Field: A Historical Examination of School Administration

• In Event: 73.024 - Reifying and Redefining Gender Roles in Higher Education and Beyond

Abstract

This historical paper examines the professionalization of educational administration with a particular emphasis on the struggles women have faced as they pursued the traditionally male-dominated leadership field. The historical articles and bibliographic information uncovered during this study share the stories of five women who overcame the challenges of the male-dominated leadership field during a time period when women were fighting for their rights. Examining various manuscripts from historical context and contemporary literature on women in administrative positions, the paper provides insights into the many challenges women still face as they navigate the educational field.

Author

• Nicole A. Spencer, University of Missouri