Stories of Generational Leadership: Women Higher Education Administrators Voices

Abstract

Research focused on women in higher education is often conducted from a monolithic perspective of women. Few studies haveinvestigated differences among and between women and the influences impacting such differences. Generational differences ofindividuals can influence values and preferences (Arsenault, 2004) as well as impact the organizational functioning of collegesand universities in the United States. Therefore, this mixed-method study explored these differences among femaleadministrators in higher education. Quantitative analysis indicated generational differences in managerial practices amongfemale leaders. However, more similarities than differences among the generational cohorts were discovered in the qualitativeanalysis. Implications for practice midlevel women administrators in student affairs are discussed.