Quilted Narratives: Exploring Rural Appalachian Women’s Leadership Through Story and Identity

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Saturday 3:45 pm
  In Roundtable Session: Educational Leadership in Rural and Remote Communities

Abstract

This narrative inquiry examines how sociocultural identities shape the leadership practices of rural Appalachian women educational leaders in K-12 settings. Drawing on interviews with three purposefully selected participants and integrating autoethnographic elements, the study reveals how cultural background, gender, and regional identity converge to inform leadership decision-making. Grounded in theories of intersectionality, sociocultural learning, and biographical approaches, the findings illuminate the importance of rootedness, relationality, and resilience. Participants’ storied experiences challenge deficit narratives and highlight a leadership praxis that is culturally grounded and community-oriented. This work contributes to rural educational leadership research and affirms the value of place-based identity in shaping effective and authentic school leadership.

Authors

• Leanna Rippey, Virginia Tech

• Charles L. Lowery, Virginia Tech