Thriving or Surviving: The Impact of Academic Leadership on Women’s Health and Well-Being

• In Event: Women's Health and Reproductive Freedom

Abstract

In this study, we examine the impact of academic leadership on women's physical and mental health and overall wellbeing. The focus of this investigation is to identify how engagement in leadership positions at higher education institutions impacts females' dietary behavior and physical and mental health. This study combined a traditional qualitative interview with five instruments focused on nutrition, physical activity, and demographic information. The preliminary findings suggest leadership positions impact females physical and mental health, especially when age and motherhood are factored in. Implications for systemic supports and resources for females to pursue academic leadership will be discussed. This study was funded by the National Institute of Health as a pilot project within the COBRE grant.

Authors

• Aleksandra Hollingshead, University of Idaho

• Brooke Blevins, University of Idaho

• Jingru Lu, University of Idaho