Doctoral Research: Leadership Formation Among Women of Color

My doctoral research will explore the formation and development of leadership identity among women of color in educational leadership. Rather than focusing solely on barriers to leadership advancement, this research will examine the experiences, relationships, cultural influences, and pivotal moments that contribute to how women come to recognize themselves, develop, and ultimately emerge as leaders.

The study will explore how factors such as culture, family expectations, gender, mentorship, professional experiences, organizational environments, self-efficacy, and opportunities for leadership influence the formation of leadership identity over time. Particular attention will be given to the critical experiences and relationships that strengthen leadership confidence, authenticity, agency, and professional purpose.

Through qualitative research and the personal narratives of women serving in educational leadership roles, the study will seek to better understand not simply how women of color attain leadership positions, but how leaders are formed. Their stories will provide insight into the experiences that shape leadership philosophy, identity, resilience, decision-making, and the capacity to lead and transform educational communities.

Ultimately, this research seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of leadership formation and inform how educational institutions identify, mentor, develop, and support the next generation of women leaders from historically underrepresented communities.

Doctoral Journey

Beginning in Spring 2027, I will embark on the next chapter of my educational and leadership journey by pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Concordia University Irvine. This opportunity represents both a personal and professional commitment to deepening my understanding of leadership, strengthening my ability to serve others, and contributing meaningful research to the field of education.

I look forward to a journey of continued growth, reflection, and discovery as I explore how leadership is formed through experiences, relationships, challenges, and the people who shape us along the way.

Timeline

• Spring 2027 — The Journey Begins: Begin the Doctorate in Educational Leadership program at Concordia University Irvine.

• 2027 — Learning & Exploration: Engage in advanced study of educational leadership, organizational change, research, and leadership development.

• 2028 — Research Takes Shape: Refine my research interests and explore how life experiences, relationships, challenges, and identity contribute to leadership formation.

• 2029 — Dissertation Journey: Conduct doctoral research, elevate the stories and experiences of others, and translate those findings into meaningful leadership practice.

• The Goal — Lead With Purpose: Complete the doctorate and use the experience to continue growing as an educational leader, mentor, researcher, and advocate for others.

Leadership does not always begin with a title, a promotion, or a formal opportunity to lead. Sometimes, the journey begins much earlier—and sometimes it emerges from experiences that initially have nothing to do with leadership at all.

Ask Yourself — and Share With Me

What experiences, relationships, challenges, or defining moments have shaped the leader you are becoming—and how have they influenced the way you lead, serve, and inspire others?

As I begin this journey, I invite you to reflect on your own story and share it with me.