Latinas' Leadership as Undergraduate STEM College Students at Southern Hispanic-Serving Institutions

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 5
  In Poster Session: Latina/o/x Research Issues SIG Poster Session

Abstract

This qualitative study gains insight into Latina STEM undergraduate college students’ leadership styles. The leadership adopted by 10 Latinas at two regional HSIs is influenced by their gender and ethnicity, especially in White male-dominated disciplines where questioning and doubts on Latinas’ intellectual ability are commonly experienced. The study’s findings revealed that Latinas at these two specifics HSIs came up with strategies that allowed them to gain visibility in and out of classrooms and build a sound social network. Such strategies helped in developing, molding, and executing leadership practices. In addition, they embraced proudly their identity as women and Latinas recognizing an ongoing struggle to lead as minorities in STEM majors.

Authors

• Hilda Cecilia Contreras Aguirre, New Mexico State University

• Elsa M. Gonzalez, National Science Foundation

• Rosa Maria Banda, Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi