Paths Aren’t Linear: Imagining the Future of a Collective of Women

• In Event: Women Sustaining Each Other

Abstract

This study explores the evolution of a long-standing peer support group formed by and for women scholars navigating academia’s structural pressures and emotional toll. Drawing on frameworks of Communities of Practice (Wenger, 1998) and Care Circles (Ismael et al., 2021), we examine how our group cultivated belonging, mutual mentorship, and relational accountability across programs, institutions, and career stages. Using qualitative data from group members’ reflections, we identify three sustaining dynamics: cultivating safety, building shared purpose, and learning through reciprocal mentorship. Our findings highlight how intentionally structured collectives can resist the isolating norms of academic culture and reimagine scholarly success through care and collaboration. This work contributes to research on feminist mentorship, identity development, and collective resilience in higher education.

Authors

• Shannon Athey, West Chester University of Pennsylvania

• Hyunjeong Lee, Indiana University

• Jessica McClain, Indiana University

• Dianne T. Wellington, SUNY - College at Cortland

• Jill A. Scott, Indiana University

• Sharon Daley, Indiana University

• Shaunta D Scroggins, Purdue University

• Breanya Hogue, Purdue University