Leading with Love, Courage, and Action: An Autoethnography of a Korean American Dean for the College of Ethnic Studies

• In Event: Surviving to Thriving: Pathways Toward Renewal for Asian American and Pacific Islander K-20 Women Leaders

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive exploration of the career trajectory and leadership experiences of a Korean American woman in higher education. The study aims to achieve several key outcomes. Firstly, it seeks to understand the leader's experience of leadership, focusing on how she navigated her role with qualities such as love, courage, and action. This involves examining the personal attributes and strategies that have defined her leadership approach. Secondly, the study aims to explore her career development, investigating how her leadership skills have evolved by mapping her leadership development stages. Thirdly, the research will analyze how she has balanced health and wellness, highlighting the strategies that have contributed to her well-being. Finally, the paper intends to offer advice for others considering leadership roles, drawing on the insights of this Korean American woman leader. The central research question guiding this study is: "What has been the life course trajectory of a Korean American woman higher education leader?" This question is designed to uncover the personal and professional journey of a notable leader in the field, offering valuable lessons for both current and future leaders.

This study will adopt a life course perspective and utilize autoethnography as its primary theoretical and methodological framework. The life course perspective will guide the investigation of how the leader's experiences and leadership skills have developed over time, taking into account the socio-cultural contexts and personal milestones that have influenced her career. This approach will provide a backdrop for understanding her leadership journey within broader historical and social dynamics. Complementing this, autoethnography will serve as the methodological approach, allowing for a rich, personal narrative that integrates the leader’s own reflections with broader cultural and institutional insights. Through autoethnography, the study will delve into the subjective experiences and meanings that have shaped the leader’s professional path and leadership style, facilitating a nuanced exploration of her journey.

This research is significant as it delves into key themes through a life course perspective. It explores the development of the leader’s unique leadership qualities and skills over time, offering insight into how she has cultivated her distinct leadership abilities. Moreover, it examines her role in growing others in leadership, focusing on how she has influenced and mentored emerging leaders. This research is particularly noteworthy due to the underrepresentation of Asian American women in leadership positions within higher education. By centering on one leader’s experiences, the study highlights how her cultural identity and personal background have contributed to her leadership. The insights gained from this research are expected to offer valuable guidance for aspiring leaders and promote a more inclusive understanding of leadership in academia.

This research paper will offer an in-depth exploration of the life course trajectory of a Korean American woman leader, utilizing a life course perspective and autoethnographic methodology. By focusing on the development of leadership skills, the balance between well-being and professional responsibilities, the study will contribute significantly to both leadership theory and practice, particularly within the context of underrepresented groups in academia.

Author

• Grace J. Yoo, San Francisco State University