Date Approved

3-9-2017

Embargo Period

3-9-2017

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

EdD Educational Leadership

Department

Educational Services and Leadership

College

College of Education

Advisor

Turner-Johnson, Ane

Committee Member 1

Manning, JoAnn

Committee Member 2

Sun, Anna

Keywords

isolation, leadership, superintendency, women

Subject(s)

Women school superintendents

Disciplines

Educational Administration and Supervision

Abstract

The purpose of this hermeneutical phenomenological study was to explore the attributes associated with the leadership of women superintendents and how they overcome isolation in a predominantly male-dominated field. Through a feminist lens, I explored the manner in which women serve as superintendents, particularly, the manner in which they overcome isolation in a male-dominated field. Eleven women, including myself as the researcher, currently serving as superintendents in New Jersey participated in this study. Through the use of graphic elicitation and interviews the participants revealed an array of instances that enhance the feeling of isolation as a woman in the male-dominated superintendency. Findings reveal that women in this field need to make a concerted effort to form deeper relationships with other women serving in this role. Social media and online forums can serve as a convenient platform for women in the superintendency to interact, share ideas, and vent when necessary.

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